[4] 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a metabolite of the psychoactive botanical kratom, exhibits significantly higher binding affinity to mu-opioid receptors (MOR) than morphine, with estimates ranging from 14 to 22 times greater potency.

Although kratom's primary alkaloid, mitragynine, is associated with lower abuse potential and moderate safety, 7-OH demonstrates opioid-like effects and can substitute for morphine in a dose-dependent manner, raising concerns about its potential for physical dependence and addiction.

[5] Recent developments in the market have introduced semi-synthetic 7-OH products, which differ from traditional kratom preparations in both concentration and route of administration.

Some of these formulations bypass first-pass metabolism, significantly increasing bioavailability and potentially amplifying their opioid-like effects.

[7][8] 7-OH does not appear to activate the β-arrestin pathway, distinguising it from traditional opiate & opioid chemicals.