New Kratom Variants: What You Need to Know
What is Kratom?1
Kratom is a psychoactive botanical derived from the leaves of the mitragyna speciosa tree, which is indigenous to Southeast Asia. “Kratom” is often used to refer to the primary alkaloid in the leaf, mitragynine. The presence and use of mitragynine within the United States has escalated over the last two decades for recreational purposes due to its euphoric effects, mood elevation, and relaxation.
What are 7-hydroxymitragynine and Mitragynine Pseudoindoxyl?2
7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly abbreviated as 7-OH, and mitragynine pseudoindoxyl are both known urinary metabolites that are eliminated in urine after use of kratom. Additionally, these compounds exist naturally in small quantities in kratom plants. Both 7-hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine pseudoindoxyl have demonstrated significantly greater potency at opioid receptors compared to kratom. These federally unregulated substances are being isolated, synthesized, and formulated into products that are readily available over the counter.
Why It Matters
A Changing Landscape
The growing types of semi-synthetic kratom-related products are found in diverse forms, including chewable/sublingual tablets or strips, gummies, drink mixes, shots, syrups, vape pens, capsules, food products, or powders. These products may be inaccurately labeled and are marketed to appeal to young people for “general wellbeing,” “pain relief,” or “stress/anxiety reduction.”
Unpredictable Potency5
7-hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine pseudoindoxyl may be 13x more potent than morphine, acting as a strong mu-opioid receptor agonist.
Risk to Consumer
Kratom is associated with respiratory depression, dependency, and overdose, especially if combined with opioids or sedatives.
Easy Accessibility
Many of these products are available online, in vape shops, or in local gas stations. While the DEA has labeled kratom as a “drug of concern,” it is not federally scheduled. Some states have banned its sale or moved to schedule it locally. Consult your state legislation for local restrictions.
Clinical Impact
Early detection of 7-hydroxymitragynine enables providers to identify high-risk opioid-like exposure, tailor treatment plans as needed, and ultimately prevent adverse outcomes.
AEGIS SCIENCES CORPORATION KRATOM TESTING VIA TANDEM LC-MS/MS TECHNOLOGY | ||
Test Code/Specimen Type | 04466 - Urine | 04467 - Oral Fluid |
Includes | Mitragynine 7-hydroxymitragynine Mitragynine Pseudoindoxyl | Mitragynine 7-hydroxymitragynine |
