Florida Department of Health warns residents about dangerous opioid-like 7-OH products being sold in stores across the state

Tallahassee, Florida – The Florida Department of Health is warning residents about the growing availability of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and related products, which officials say can create serious health risks despite being sold in attractive and easily accessible forms.

Health officials said these concentrated opioid-like compounds are increasingly being marketed and sold throughout Florida in places such as gas stations, vape shops, and convenience stores. While some products may appear harmless because of their packaging and presentation, officials caution that their effects on the body can be powerful and potentially dangerous.

The warning focuses on products containing 7-OH, a concentrated compound derived from kratom. Officials explained that although many people use kratom products safely, concentrated 7-OH products can affect the same receptors in the body as opioids and have been linked to severe health problems.

“Floridians should know the risks associated with these 7-OH products,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. “While many Floridians use kratom safely, concentrated products like 7-OH are much more dangerous, act on the same receptors as opioids and have been associated with serious adverse health effects, including respiratory depression, seizures, and addiction.”

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According to the Florida Department of Health, many of these products are designed to attract consumers through bright colors, sweet flavors, and familiar formats. They may be sold as gummies, drink mixers, shots, powders, or tablets, creating an appearance that can make them seem similar to everyday consumer products.

Officials stressed that the appearance of these items does not reflect their potential impact. Despite marketing claims suggesting they are natural, safe, or risk-free alternatives, health experts say these substances may carry significant dangers, especially when used without understanding their effects.

The Florida Department of Health is encouraging parents, educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders to learn more about these products and have conversations with young people about the possible risks.

The warning comes as poison control centers in Florida and across the country report an increase in calls involving 7-OH and similar substances. Reported symptoms linked to exposure include dizziness, confusion, headaches, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, tremors, reduced mental awareness, respiratory depression, and seizures.

In more serious cases, officials said use of these compounds may lead to life-threatening respiratory failure, a condition where a person is unable to get enough oxygen or remove enough carbon dioxide from the body.

Health officials are advising residents to pay attention to warning signs when identifying potentially dangerous products. These include items labeled with names such as “7-OH,” “7-OHMZ,” “7-Hydroxy,” “MGM-15,” “MGM-16,” or other similar terms.

Consumers should also be cautious of products featuring candy-style branding, colorful packaging, sweet flavors, or claims that they provide a natural and harmless experience. Products sold in forms such as gummies, shots, powders, drink mixes, and tablets should receive additional attention, especially when their ingredients are unclear.

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Anyone who experiences unusual symptoms after using 7-OH or related products is encouraged to seek medical assistance immediately. Individuals who believe someone may be experiencing poisoning or an overdose should contact the Florida Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or call 911 in an emergency.

State officials said Florida will continue monitoring emerging public health concerns and providing information to residents as new threats develop. The Florida Department of Health emphasized that education and awareness are important tools in helping families make informed decisions and reduce preventable health risks.

Through continued public outreach and collaboration with healthcare professionals and communities, officials hope residents will better understand the dangers associated with these products and recognize the importance of seeking help when needed.