7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a pharmacologically active alkaloid found in kratom that behaves like a powerful opioid, binding to the same receptors in the brain as morphine. In laboratory pain-relief assays, 7-OH has demonstrated approximately 10-times the potency of morphine and up to 40-times the potency of mitragynine, the primary kratom alkaloid. Additional pharmacological studies suggest 14–22 times greater efficacy than morphine at the µ-opioid receptor — underscoring its significant addiction and overdose risks. While natural kratom leaf contains less than 2% 7-OH, concentrated and semi-synthetic 7-OH products are now sold in forms reaching up to 98% purity, often marketed as “plant-based relaxation” or “herbal wellness.” Despite these claims, 7-OH carries the same dependence, tolerance, withdrawal, and overdose liabilities as traditional opioids. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed it has no approved medical use and cannot legally be added to foods or dietary supplements. The human impact is already visible. Reports describe consumers unknowingly purchasing products at gas stations, vape shops, and online stores, only to experience severe opioid-like withdrawal symptoms including tremors, insomnia, panic, vomiting, and convulsions — a dangerous reality hidden behind a “natural” label. Treatment centers are increasingly seeing patients seeking detox for 7-OH, highlighting how quickly dependence can take hold. At a time when the United States continues to lose tens of thousands of lives each year to the opioid crisis, the unregulated sale of a compound more potent than morphine represents a direct and preventable public-health threat. The danger is worsened by youth-oriented marketing — flavored gummies, beverages, and “relaxation shots” that appear harmless. Some states have already taken action. Arizona, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah have set limits on 7-OH content in kratom products, and Florida recently classified 7-OH as a Schedule I controlled substance — prohibiting its sale statewide. But this patchwork approach leaves millions unprotected. We are calling on the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to take immediate nationwide action: Schedule 7-Hydroxymitragynine as a controlled substance, require accurate labeling and dosage transparency, prevent deceptive marketing practices, and protect communities from this emerging opioid threat. This is urgent — and this harm is preventable. Your support can help ensure every state receives the same protection. Follow @ban_7oh on Instagram to learn more and help raise awareness, and resources for recovery support.