7 Reasons SSDP Opposes Criminalization of 7-OH: A Call for Compassionate, Evidence-Based Policy

At Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP), we believe that science, compassion, and autonomy—not fear and misinformation—should guide public health decisions. The recent push to criminalize 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a natural compound found in kratom, is yet another example of the failed War on Drugs approach that harms people rather than protecting them. Here’s what you need to know—and why SSDP stands firmly against criminalization.

1. 7-OH Is Kratom — and Kratom Is 7-OH

7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine) is not a “new” or “synthetic” drug—it’s one of the natural alkaloids that gives kratom its effects. Like Vitamin C and other plant-based supplements, 7-OH can be stabilized or converted for consistency; however, it remains a plant-derived, naturally occurring compound. Criminalizing 7-OH is the same as criminalizing part of the kratom plant itself, and banning one compound sets a dangerous precedent that threatens access to all kratom-based wellness products.

2. It’s a Harm Reduction Tool That Saves Lives

For many people seeking alternatives to opioids, 7-OH and kratom offer a way to manage pain or reduce withdrawal symptoms. Early studies also suggest promising anti-inflammatory and even potential anticancer properties—further highlighting the need for research and regulation, not prohibition.

3. Overdose Data Shows the Real Risk Lies in Poly-Drug Use

7-OH has not been shown to cause overdose deaths on its own. The danger arises when 7-OH is mixed with other respiratory depressants including alcohol, benzodiazepines, antihistamines, antipsychotics, or opioids. 

Alcohol in particular is a concern. According to a recent press release from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, alcohol was present in all three recently identified fatal overdoses in LA County residents between the ages of 18 to 40 years old, all of whom were otherwise healthy, with no other substances identified as substantively contributing to their deaths.

SSDP strongly urges anyone using 7-OH or kratom to avoid combining them with these substances and to use caution with any central nervous system depressants.

4. Dose Awareness Is Key to Safety

As with caffeine, alcohol, or any active compound, responsible use is critical. Educating consumers about dosage and labeling standards—rather than banning products—is the best way to protect health and prevent misuse.

7-OH is more potent than morphine and tolerance can  develop more quickly than traditional kratom leaf products. 

A good rule of thumb if choosing to use 7-OH is to “start low and go slow.”  

Though a typical dose is 5-10mg per serving, users without a tolerance should start with a smaller dose (2.5-5mg). All users should be careful not to exceed more than 20mg per day or use 7-OH more frequently than once every 4 hours.

5. Criminalization Creates More Harm, Not Less

History shows that prohibition never works—it just drives products underground, where they become unregulated, unsafe, and often deadly.

When people lose access to safer, regulated alternatives, they are pushed toward illicit and dangerous markets. We cannot afford to repeat those mistakes.

6. Regulation, Not Prohibition, Protects Public Health

A rational public health approach requires regulation, not criminalization. We need policies that ensure transparent labeling, product testing, and ongoing research. 

Sensible regulation can protect consumers while preserving access for people who rely on 7-OH and kratom for wellness and harm reduction. Punitive bans waste resources, expand criminalization, stifle research, and continue fueling the failed War on Drugs.

7. Medical Freedom, Not Handcuffs

People deserve the freedom to decide what they put in their own bodies. 

Government overreach and Big Pharma monopolies shouldn’t dictate our access to natural wellness tools. Prohibiting 7-OH is not about safety—it’s about control. Kratom (and its active metabolite 7-OH) are part of a centuries-old tradition of plant-based wellness and recovery. Banning them will not save lives—it will cost them. It’s time to end prohibitionist thinking and embrace compassionate, evidence-based policy that keeps people safe, informed, and free.

Keep kratom & 7-OH legal!