FDA warns potent kratom derivative 7-OH could fuel next opioid epidemic

A new opioid-like drug, 7-OH, is being sold at gas stations and is warned by the FDA to be the next wave of the opioid epidemic. This potent substance, derived from the kratom plant, is legal in 42 states and has seen a 1,200% increase in related hospitalizations and deaths over the past decade. Manufacturers are not required to disclose 7-OH content, leading to unknown potency and potential mixing with other dangerous chemicals, raising serious public health concerns.