New York Issues Urgent Warning on Kratom and 7-OH: What Users Need to Know

The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports issued a new fact sheet this week warning residents about the dangers of kratom and 7-hydroxymitragynine, a potent compound increasingly found in commercial products sold across the state.

Kratom, derived from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree, occupies a legal gray area in New York. While possession and sale are permitted, the substance is not FDA-approved for any medical condition. The Drug Enforcement Administration classifies it as a "Drug and Chemical of Concern" due to its sedative effects and addiction potential, though it remains unscheduled under the Controlled Substances Act.

The state's concern centers on 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, a natural breakdown product of kratom's primary psychoactive chemical. In its concentrated form—now widely available in synthetic products—7-OH produces opioid-like effects significantly stronger than those of natural kratom. Manufacturers have begun adding laboratory-made 7-OH to kratom products in quantities far exceeding what occurs naturally, creating what health officials describe as an unpredictable and potentially dangerous substance.

"While kratom is legal, it can still cause adverse health effects, and people need to be aware of the potential dangers," said OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham in the agency's announcement. State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald echoed this warning, noting that many consumers remain unaware of risks including liver toxicity, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms—dangers amplified when products are fortified with concentrated 7-OH.

The timing of the fact sheet aligns with troubling national data. According to a CDC report published in March, kratom-related calls to U.S. poison centers increased by 1,200% between 2015 and 2025, with the sharpest spike occurring in 2025. Health authorities attribute much of this increase to the proliferation of high-potency 7-OH products.

New York has already taken legislative action. In December 2025, Governor Hochul signed two bills prohibiting kratom sales to individuals under 21 and requiring product labels to list all ingredients along with addiction warnings. The New York State Department of Health began specifically monitoring 7-OH in June 2025 and has since published clinical guidance for healthcare providers.

The effects of kratom vary dramatically by dose. At lower amounts, users experience stimulant-like effects—increased alertness and sociability. At higher doses, the substance produces opioid-like effects including euphoria, decreased alertness, and confusion. Severe intoxication can lead to respiratory depression, seizures, abnormal heart rhythm, coma, and death. Notably, many fatalities involving kratom have occurred when the substance was combined with other drugs, particularly fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.

For New Yorkers struggling with kratom use or concerned about a loved one, the state operates a toll-free HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369), available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Text support is also available by messaging HOPENY to 467369. Treatment options including crisis detox, inpatient, residential, and outpatient care can be found through the OASAS treatment locator.