The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has issued a warning about the use of products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), an opioid-like compound found in the kratom plant. The agency reports that high concentrations of 7-OH can lead to significant health issues and may have the potential for dependence or abuse.
According to DSHS, as of August 27, the Texas Poison Center Network received 192 reports of exposures involving kratom or other products containing 7-OH in 2025. This marks an increase compared to previous years, with 107 cases reported in all of 2024 and 122 in all of 2023. Of this year’s cases, 19 involved exposure to concentrated forms of 7-OH, with most incidents occurring during July and August. Eleven individuals required treatment at healthcare facilities due to serious health problems related to these exposures.
DSHS advises people to avoid using products that contain 7-OH. “Anyone who has health concerns after using 7-OH products should contact their healthcare provider or the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222,” the agency stated.
Kratom is a tree native to Southeast Asia. Products made from kratom and those containing 7-OH are sometimes promoted as natural remedies for pain relief, anxiety, or assistance with opioid withdrawal. While typical kratom products have low concentrations of 7-OH—usually less than two percent—semi-synthetic or synthetic versions can reach up to ninety-eight percent concentration and are increasingly available on the market. Concentrated forms are often added to various consumer products such as pills, gummies, candies, and imitation ice cream cones sold at gas stations, smoke shops, and online outlets.
Research indicates that concentrated levels of 7-OH pose a risk for abuse due to its opioid-like effects. Studies show that it can be up to thirteen times more potent than morphine. In July 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced measures intended to restrict access to these products because of their strong opioid-like properties. Neither kratom nor any product containing 7-OH is approved by the FDA for medical use; their safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Symptoms associated with the use of concentrated 7-OH include nausea, vomiting, agitation, confusion, sweating, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, difficulty breathing, sleepiness or loss of consciousness, seizures, and respiratory depression.
Healthcare providers are encouraged by DSHS to offer general emergency care as needed for patients exposed to these substances. They should also consider administering naloxone if there is respiratory depression and manage symptoms consistent with opioid use disorder following exposure.
For members of the public, DSHS recommends avoiding all products containing 7-OH—even those marketed as treatments for health conditions—and carefully examining packaging when purchasing candies or similar items. Kratom and related products should be kept away from children and pets. People are also advised to consult healthcare professionals before using supplements advertised for pain relief or mood enhancement.
DSHS emphasizes: “Contact a health care provider or call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 regarding concerns about 7-OH.”
In case someone becomes unresponsive or needs immediate medical attention after possible exposure to these substances, calling emergency services is recommended.
For questions regarding adverse reactions linked with kratom or other forms of 7-OH exposure—or advice on medical management—the Texas Poison Center Network remains available at its toll-free number.
