Trump pivots on kratom, suggesting 7-OH derivative be approved

On Monday, President Trump indicated that the federal government might consider approving certain forms of 7-OH, an opioid derived from the kratom plant.  

“We’re looking very seriously at natural 7-OH and getting that approved,” Trump stated. 

The exact meaning of “natural 7-OH” as referenced by Trump was unclear. However, 7-hydroxymitragynine, a compound abbreviated as 7-OH, is naturally present in kratom. Kratom is increasingly popular as a recreational drug and an unapproved remedy for pain. Although kratom is less hazardous compared to powerful synthetic opioids like fentanyl or prescription painkillers, it still poses risks of addiction and overdose.