Deadly 7-OH Overdoses Confirmed in Los Angeles county
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Los Angeles County health officials have confirmed a recent increase in overdoses and deaths associated with 7-OH, a highly concentrated and unregulated substance derived from kratom. The alarming trend prompted an urgent public health warning issued today, 2024/10/27 14:35:00 PDT, urging residents to avoid using the risky product.
The L.A. County Department of Public Health reports that 7-OH is being sold in various forms – tablets, gummies, drink mixes, and liquid extracts – at gas stations, smoke shops, and online retailers.While marketed as a dietary supplement for issues like pain and anxiety, the synthetic concentrate carries significant risks, including fatal overdoses. The substance’s unregulated nature and potent concentration amplify these dangers.
“It’s critical that the community understand that these products are dangerous and can result in fatal overdoses,” said Dr. Gary Tsai, Director of the L.A. County Department of Public Health’s Substance Abuse Prevention and Control Bureau. ”The safest thing to do is avoid using 7-OH and kratom-related products altogether.”
Tsai also cautioned individuals currently using 7-OH against using it alone and advised against mixing it with other drugs or alcohol. he emphasized that naloxone, an opioid reversal medication, can be used in the event of an overdose involving 7-OH.
About 7-OH and kratom products
7-OH, the psychoactive component of kratom leaves, is synthetically concentrated into various products sold in retail and online venues throughout L.A. County, according to officials.
At low doses, 7-OH can produce stimulant-like effects, but higher doses mimic the effects of opioid drugs.
These products are frequently enough unlabeled with misleading terms like ”plant alkaloids” or simply “alkaloid” and are deceptively marketed as dietary supplements to treat a wide range of conditions, including pain, anxiety, mood disorders, opioid withdrawal symptoms, or to enhance energy and general well-being.
The products are available in multiple forms, including tablets, gummies, drink mixes, and highly concentrated liquid extracts or shots, which dramatically increase their potential for adverse and life-threatening effects.
Suggest a Correction
| Substance | Form | Reported Effects | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7-OH | Tablets, Gummies, Liquids | Stimulant (low dose), Opioid-like (high dose) | High |
| Kratom | Leaves, Capsules, Powders | mild stimulant, Pain relief | Moderate |
Did You Know?
Naloxone is available over-the-counter in California and can be a life-saving tool in reversing opioid overdoses, including those involving 7-OH. Find locations offering naloxone through the California Department of Public Health: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DOA/Pages/Naloxone-Distribution-Program.aspx
Pro Tip:
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, resources are available. Contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
“The unregulated nature of these products makes it incredibly challenging for consumers to know what they are actually ingesting and the potential risks involved.” – Dr. Gary Tsai
What steps are being taken to regulate these dangerous products? How can communities better educate residents about the risks associated with 7-OH and kratom?
Background on Kratom and 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally, its leaves have been used for medicinal purposes, including pain relief and as a stimulant. However, the increasing popularity of kratom and its derivatives, notably the synthetically concentrated 7-OH, has led to growing concerns about public health.7-OH is a metabolite of mitragynine, the primary psychoactive compound in kratom, and is substantially more potent than mitragynine itself.The synthetic concentration of 7-OH dramatically increases its risk profile.
Frequently Asked Questions about 7-OH and Kratom
- What is 7-OH? 7-OH is a synthetically concentrated psychoactive component of kratom leaves, sold in various products.
- Is kratom legal? The legal status of kratom varies by location. In Los Angeles County, it is not explicitly banned, but 7-OH products are raising significant safety concerns.
- What are the symptoms of a 7-OH overdose? Symptoms can include slowed or stopped breathing, confusion, drowsiness, and loss of consciousness.
- Can naloxone reverse a 7-OH overdose? Yes, naloxone can reverse the effects of opioids, including 7-OH, and should be administered in case of an overdose.
- Where can I find more information about substance abuse resources? The SAMHSA National Helpline is available 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
If you have any information regarding the sale of these dangerous products, please contact the L.A. County Department of Public Health. We encourage you to share this significant information with yoru friends, family, and community to help prevent further tragedies.
