Florida Department of Health Issues Warning on Dangerous Opioid-Like Products Sold in Stores Across Florida
“Health officials urge parents, educators, and community leaders to be aware of the risks associated with 7-OH products.”
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—The Florida Department of Health is warning Floridians about the serious health risks associated with 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and its derivatives, potent opioid-like compounds that are increasingly being marketed and sold throughout Florida.
“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.”
These products are often sold in gas stations, vape shops, and convenience stores and marketed with colorful packaging, sweet flavors, and forms that appeal to consumers, including gummies, drink mixers, shots, and tablets. Despite their appearance, these compounds can have powerful effects on the body and pose significant health risks.
The Florida Department of Health is encouraging parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to familiarize themselves with these products and discuss their risks with young people.
Poison Control Centers in Florida and across the nation have reported an increase in calls involving these substances. Reported symptoms include dizziness, confusion, headache, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, tremors, decrease mental status, respiratory depression, and seizures. In severe cases, use of these compounds may result in life threatening respiratory failure.
Floridians should be aware of the following warning signs:
- Products marketed as “7-OH,” 7-OHMZ,” “7-Hydroxy,” “MGM-15,” “MGM-16,” or similar names.
- Packaging features bright colors, candy-like branding, or sweet flavors.
- Products sold as gummies, shots, powders, drink mixers, or tablets.
- Claims suggesting the products are natural, safe, or risk-free alternatives.
Anyone experiencing adverse effects after using 7-OH or related products should seek immediate medical attention. If you suspect poisoning or overdose, contact the Florida Poison Control Centers at 1-800-222-1222 or call 911.
Florida continues to lead in identifying and addressing emerging threats to public health and safety. The Florida Department of Health remains committed to providing families with timely information and resources to help protect their health and make informed decisions.
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