The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine is conducting a groundbreaking online study on 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a compound associated with certain kratom products. The study invites individuals who have consumed 7-OH products to participate by completing a screening process and, if eligible, an online survey about their usage patterns. As a thank-you, participants who complete the study will receive a $10 virtual gift card.
Interested participants can access the screening form here: Johns Hopkins Study Screening.
Why This Study on 7-OH Matters
According to Johns Hopkins, the research aims to explore the effects and usage trends of 7-OH products, which are relatively new to the market. The study also seeks to understand consumer attitudes, motivations, and the decision-making process behind trying these products. Notably, there are currently no scientific studies detailing user experiences with 7-OH, making this research vital to fill the knowledge gap.
What is 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)?
Despite being frequently mentioned alongside mitragynine as a “main” alkaloid in kratom, 7-OH is not naturally abundant. It is a metabolite of mitragynine, formed through the addition of an oxygen molecule, and occurs in near-zero quantities in raw kratom leaves. This distinction is important, as certain companies have developed synthetic products with elevated levels of 7-OH, which they falsely label as kratom.
Rising Concerns Around 7-OH Products
The emergence of synthetic and extract-based products with artificially increased 7-OH content has raised safety concerns. These products are illegal in states with kratom regulations that limit 7-OH concentrations in the alkaloid profile. Researchers, as well as kratom industry leaders, discourage the use of these products, citing unknown long-term effects and their potential risks, as humans have never consumed 7-OH in these quantities before.
Scientific Debate: Is 7-OH Necessary for Kratom’s Effects?
Studies in mice suggest that the relaxing effects of mitragynine do not rely on its conversion into 7-OH, countering earlier theories. This adds to the complexity of understanding 7-OH and underscores the importance of further research, such as the study being conducted by Johns Hopkins.
Take part in this pioneering research and contribute to expanding our knowledge about 7-OH products and their implications.
7oh has saved me from a lot of trouble. I was addicted to heroine and pain pills but since I have been using 7oh my life has gotten better and safer. 7oh has helped me stay focused on keeping my priorities in order and more time to take care of my family. 7oh has kept me from going out and using hard drugs. My family loves me using this because I stay responsible and focused on my family when I have it.
I think a lot of people will go back to hard drugs if they ban 7oh and then there will be a lot of blood on the people that pushed the ban hands.