Originally sold at gas stations across California and the Midwest, 7-OH products are a concentrated form of kratom products that have caused overdoses and addiction among their users in the last year. Usually sold as wellness products in gummy, tablet, or drink form, these drugs have been recently flagged as both addictive and dangerous by public health authorities.

7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a minor alkaloid found in the kratom plant (Mitragyna speciosa). While natural kratom leaf contains less than 2% 7-OH, modern “7-OH isolates” are concentrated products (often 95% pure) that are much more potent than traditional kratom powder or tea. They may be extracts containing other ingredients as well.

People take the drug often seeking relief from pain or mental health symptoms, unaware that it can be highly addictive and its strength and additives can vary by manufacturer. 

Is 7-OH A Controlled Substance in California?

Currently, 7-OH products are not exactly legal, but users are not arrested for possession. Instead, punishment falls on the retailers. While not technically a “controlled substance”, the CDPH announced last October 2025 that any food or supplement containing 7-OH is illegal to sell or manufacture for consumption in California.

Can you still find 7-OH in stores?

You shouldn’t be able to, but less reputable stores may sell it. As of early March 2026, Governor Newsom says there is a 95% compliance rate among retailers asked to stop selling the inventory. Businesses caught selling it can have their inventory thrown out or seized. (State agencies have already seized over $5 million in inventory.) 

While people may still find ways to use and purchase the drug, it is not available from legitimate gas stations and smoke shops in California. Businesses do not want to be associated with a drug that is now known to have contributed to overdose deaths. They also don’t want to invite added scrutiny to their businesses.

Is 7-OH the same as regular Kratom?

Kratom is a raw leaf product usually consumed as a tea or chewed. 

Public health officials and researchers say there is a big difference between “raw leaf” kratom and “isolated 7-OH.” The isolates are viewed as pharmaceutical-grade, and they can be much stronger, causing dependence and withdrawal among chronic users. 

The drug treatment industry in California is also seeing more people who are addicted to kratom products seeking help. In July 2025, the FDA warned that these products sold in convenience stores can be as addictive as traditional opioids and carry a higher risk of overdose. And in March, the International Society of Substance Use Professionals warned that it is as much of a threat as other opioids when it comes to addiction. 

What about the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA)?

There may indeed be legislation on the horizon that protects kratom products, but does KCPA protect businesses that sell 7-OH? Actually, no. Assembly Bill 1088, currently in the California Senate, seeks to regulate kratom and its derivatives, including concentrates. 

There is a growing community in California that wants to keep kratom legal. This is primarily because of its popularity within the wellness community as a home remedy for pain and mental health issues. If passed, this legislation would impose strict limits on concentrations and synthetic additives to prevent the sale of “high-potency isolates” while keeping raw leaf products legal.

Are there health risks to using 7-OH?

Like all unregulated drugs, there are health risks, and because there are no studies for kratom products like 7-OH, the dangers of long-term use are unknown. The CDPH and FDA have warned of potential liver toxicity, seizures, and severe withdrawal symptoms. In late 2025, Los Angeles County reported six fatal overdoses where the drug was a contributing factor.

Getting Help For Addiction

If you or somebody you love is struggling with any substance use, we’re here to help you. Learn more about how to start the path to recovery by calling us at 1-800-425-1564.