Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the FDA are taking action against products containing "7-hydroxymitragynine," a compound derived from the leaves of the kratom plant, due to its opioid-like effects and the emerging drug crisis it has caused in the U.S. [1] Group 1: Product Overview - 7-hydroxymitragynine is a bioactive alkaloid found in the leaves of the kratom plant, which is native to Southeast Asia, and has similar narcotic effects to morphine [1][2] - The compound can bind to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, providing pain relief and mood enhancement, but its misuse poses significant health risks and addiction potential [2][3] Group 2: Regulatory Concerns - The FDA has received reports of addiction and overdose related to 7-hydroxymitragynine for over a decade but has yet to implement nationwide regulations [2][3] - Products containing this compound are widely available in the U.S. without prescriptions, often marketed as "natural" or "safe," misleading consumers [3][4] Group 3: Public Health Impact - The increasing use of 7-hydroxymitragynine is concerning, with reports indicating that its respiratory suppression is three times that of morphine [3] - There is a rise in severe addiction cases among young people, with withdrawal symptoms including insomnia, anxiety, and physical pain [4] Group 4: Government Response - The FDA has issued warning letters to companies selling products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine, leading to some companies halting sales and recalling products [5] - The FDA is focusing on removing dangerous synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine products from retail shelves, while natural kratom products with trace amounts are not the primary focus [5] Group 5: Legislative Actions - As of April this year, 24 states and Washington D.C. have some form of regulation on kratom or its components, with six states classifying active kratom ingredients as controlled substances [4][5]