Concerned about Kratom?

You may have noticed them near the register at a gas station or smoke shop: shots, capsules and gummies labeled kratom or 7-OH. They’re easy to find and often marketed as natural, so it’s fair to assume they’re harmless. Our providers want you to have the full picture.

Minnesota is paying closer attention, too. As of August 1, 2026, you must be 21 or older to buy or possess kratom in the state, and kratom-related calls to the Minnesota Regional Poison Center more than doubled from 2024 to 2025.

Here’s what you should know about kratom and 7-OH, how they affect the body, and where to find help.

What is Kratom?

• Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves contain naturally occurring compounds, including mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). These compounds act on opioid receptors and other systems in the body.
• Kratom produces both stimulant-like and opioid-like effects. The effects depend on the product, dose and amount consumed.
• Kratom products are sold as beverages, capsules, tablets, powders and extracts. The concentration and strength of these products vary widely.

What is 7-OH?

• 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is an opioid compound found naturally in kratom in very small amounts. It is substantially more potent at the mu-opioid receptor than mitragynine.
• Concentrated 7-OH products are different from traditional kratom leaf products. These products contain 7-OH at levels far higher than those naturally present in the kratom plant.
• 7-OH products are commonly sold as drinkable shots, tablets, capsules and gummies. Product strength and dosage vary with each product.
• 7-OH is a potent opioid and is associated with addiction, physical dependence, withdrawal and other serious health effects.
• The DEA has begun the process of placing certain 7-OH products above a proposed concentration into Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act.

Dangers of Kratom and 7-OH

• Kratom and 7-OH affect the same opioid receptors in the brain targeted by other opioids.
• Kratom and 7-OH cause physical dependence and withdrawal with regular use.
• 7-OH products are associated with serious adverse effects, including addiction, seizures, gastrointestinal distress, insomnia, depression and withdrawal symptoms.
• Kratom has been associated with serious adverse effects including liver toxicity, seizures and substance use disorder.
• Combining kratom or 7-OH with alcohol, opioids, sedatives or other substances that slow breathing increases the risk of serious harm.
• Because these products are not regulated by the FDA they vary in strength and formulation, the amount of active drug a person consumes can be difficult to determine. Some products also contain ingredients that are not listed on the label.