State Health Officials Warn of Dangerous Kratom Derivative Found in Missouri Products

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has issued a statewide health advisory warning residents about the serious risks of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a powerful psychoactive compound increasingly found in unregulated consumer products.

Officials say 7-OH, a synthetic derivative of the kratom plant, is being sold in Missouri in the form of gummies, candies, powders, and liquid shots. While kratom is a natural botanical, isolated 7-OH is up to 13 times stronger than morphine and has not been tested for safety in humans.

“Products containing 7-OH are being marketed as natural remedies, but they carry serious risks including addiction, overdose, and even death,” said Dr. Heidi Miller, DHSS Chief Medical Officer.

From January through September 2025, the Missouri Poison Center received 47 reports involving kratom or 7-OH—nearly double last year’s total. The FDA has announced plans to restrict access to 7-OH products due to their opioid-like effects.

DHSS urges Missourians to avoid any products containing 7-OH and to call 911 immediately if overdose symptoms occur.