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.