Florida Warns Consumers About Dangerous Opioid-Like Products

Florida health officials are warning parents, educators and consumers about the serious risks associated with concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine products, commonly known as 7-OH. The substance produces opioid-like effects and is being sold in colorful forms that may resemble candy, supplements or ordinary convenience-store products.

The Florida Department of Health issued the warning after identifying the growing availability of these products at gas stations, vape shops and convenience stores across the state. They may be sold as gummies, tablets, powders, drink mixers or small liquid doses commonly marketed as shots.

Although some packaging describes the products as natural, safe or risk-free alternatives, health officials warn that concentrated 7-OH compounds can act on the same receptors in the brain as opioids.

“Floridians should know the risks associated with these 7-OH products,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. While many people may use traditional kratom products without experiencing serious complications, he noted that concentrated 7-OH products are considerably more dangerous and have been linked to respiratory depression, seizures and addiction.

Poison control centers in Florida and across the country have reported an increase in calls involving these substances. Reported symptoms include dizziness, confusion, headaches, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, tremors, reduced mental alertness and difficulty breathing.In severe cases, users may experience life-threatening respiratory failure. Anyone showing serious symptoms after consuming one of these products should receive emergency medical attention immediately.

Authorities are urging consumers to look closely at product labels. Warning signs include names such as “7-OH,” “7-OHMZ,” “7-Hydroxy,” “MGM-15” and “MGM-16.” Bright packaging, candy-like branding, sweet flavors and claims that a product is completely safe should also raise concerns.

The warning is especially important for parents and educators because some presentations may appeal to teenagers and younger consumers. Health officials recommend having direct conversations with young people, reviewing product labels and avoiding substances with unclear ingredients or concentrations.

Florida has also taken steps to strengthen its response to the emerging public health threat by moving to classify 7-OH and related compounds as Schedule I controlled substances.

Consumers should not assume that a product is harmless simply because it is sold legally in a familiar retail location or marketed as natural.

Anyone experiencing an adverse reaction after using 7-OH or a related product should seek immediate medical care. In cases of suspected poisoning or overdose, call 911 or contact the Florida Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222.