Los Angeles officials have issued a warning following a concerning spike in overdose deaths linked to a synthetic compound derived from kratom. The substance, known as 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), has been connected to three fatalities among residents aged 18 to 40, prompting health officials to advise the public on the associated dangers.
According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, each of the deceased had alcohol present in their systems and were otherwise considered healthy individuals. No additional substances were identified that could have contributed to their deaths, highlighting the potential risks linked to 7-OH.
Kratom, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree native to Southeast Asia, is often marketed as a remedy for ailments such as pain, anxiety, and depression. The compounds are usually processed into powders or capsules and can be smoked, brewed as tea, or consumed in various forms sold in stores.
Health officials note that 7-OH is the primary psychoactive ingredient found in kratom leaves and is increasingly being concentrated and sold in diverse products available in retail outlets across Los Angeles County. Items ranging from gummies to drink mixes and high-potency liquid extracts are being marketed with misleading claims of health benefits, often labeled with terms like “plant alkaloids.”
While low doses of 7-OH may produce stimulant-like effects, higher doses can mimic opioids, leading to severe health risks. “High doses or the combination of 7-OH with alcohol or other depressants can result in life-threatening respiratory issues,” warned officials, reinforcing that these products remain unregulated and pose significant overdose risks due to unknown concentrations.
The Federal Drug Administration previously issued warnings to companies promoting 7-OH products illegally, emphasizing that no FDA-approved drugs contain this compound. The agency reiterated the risks consumers face when using unverified products, underscoring the lack of proven safety or efficacy.
In light of these dangers, public health officials are advising residents to exercise extreme caution with kratom products. Recommendations include never using drugs alone, avoiding mixtures with other substances, and keeping naloxone on hand to counteract potential overdoses.
As the landscape of unregulated substances continues to evolve, health authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant and informed. By spreading awareness about the risks associated with synthetic kratom compounds, officials hope to mitigate the dangerous trend impacting local residents.