Is a Drug Stronger Than Morphine Driving Addiction in N.J.?
At a Glance: Kratom in New Jersey
- Kratom remains legal in New Jersey, sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and online despite federal scrutiny.
- The compound 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), found in some kratom products, can act on opioid receptors and has been described as more potent than morphine.
- FDA officials recommend scheduling 7-OH as a controlled substance due to its opioid-like effects and risk for addiction.
- Health concerns include dependence, withdrawal, and overdose risks, especially with concentrated products or when combined with other substances.
- Advocates push for Kratom Consumer Protection Acts, which would regulate purity, labeling, and age restrictions rather than banning kratom entirely.
- Public health experts warn that concentrated 7-OH products may fuel a new wave of addiction if left unregulated.
Table of Contents
What this story is about
New Jersey allows sales of kratom products, including some concentrated forms tied to a compound called 7‑hydroxymitragynine (7‑OH). Health officials warn that 7‑OH acts like an opioid and can be more potent than morphine, raising concern that these products could deepen the addiction crisis. Advocates say regulated kratom can help some adults manage pain or withdrawal. The debate now centers on science, safety, and how New Jersey should respond.
Kratom comes from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, a tree native to Southeast Asia. Some people use it to boost energy or to ease pain and withdrawal symptoms. The plant contains several alkaloids—mitragynine and 7‑OH among the most studied—that interact with opioid receptors.
Kratom’s active compounds
Research shows these compounds can produce opioid‑like effects. In lab and animal work, 7‑OH has shown strong analgesic potency relative to morphine; findings vary by method, dose, and preparation. Mitragynine and 7‑OH appear to differ in their abuse potential, with concentrated 7‑OH extracts drawing the most scrutiny.
Why some people use it
Users report that kratom helps with pain, anxiety, or to taper from opioids; others say it provides mild stimulation at low doses and sedation at higher doses. Federal agencies, however, have not approved kratom for any medical use, and they continue to warn about risks.
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Why it is legal—and widely sold—in New Jersey
Kratom products are on shelves in parts of New Jersey, including smoke shops, gas stations, and online vendors. The state does not have a comprehensive kratom statute in effect. Several states regulate or ban kratom; federal agencies continue to evaluate policy options.
Current New Jersey law
New Jersey lawmakers have considered bills targeting certain substances and updating definitions in the Controlled Dangerous Substances Act; policy discussions have included kratom and related compounds. Legislative text shows the state’s focus on modernizing controlled‑substance designations, though no statewide ban on kratom leaf is in effect as of this writing.
Retail availability
Consumers can buy kratom powders, capsules, tinctures, “shots,” and—in some places—products marketed as 7‑OH. Labeling and purity vary, and there is no standardized dosing or testing regime under federal law for dietary supplements containing kratom alkaloids. That inconsistency is a central concern for health officials.
‘More potent than morphine’: what the science and regulators say
Natural kratom vs. concentrated 7‑OH
In traditional teas or powders, 7‑OH appears in very small amounts. By contrast, some modern products concentrate 7‑OH or add semisynthetic versions, which federal officials describe as potent opioids by design, including red kratom effects and risks. This distinction—between raw plant material and engineered concentrates—underpins current regulatory moves.
FDA’s position and recent actions
In July 2025, the FDA urged scheduling 7‑OH as a controlled substance, citing its opioid activity and potential to drive a new wave of addiction. Learn about prescription opioid addiction treatment. The agency also issued compliance actions against companies marketing 7‑OH items. These steps do not target traditional kratom leaf, but they do aim squarely at concentrated 7‑OH products. The AP and other outlets reported the same emphasis: curbing 7‑OH while leaving raw kratom outside the scope of that specific action.
What potency claims mean
Statements such as “more potent than morphine” come primarily from pre‑clinical work and receptor studies. In some analyses, mitragynine has been reported with high relative potency and 7‑OH even higher, though results differ by model. Translating lab potency to real‑world risk depends on formulation, dose, route, and user factors.
One New Jersey user’s experience
A 63‑year‑old Monmouth Park trainer, Anthony Margotta Jr., told reporters he turned to kratom tea for pain relief because he cannot take prescription opioids after years battling addiction. He said he bought kratom powder online and brewed it like tea. Individual stories like his illustrate why some adults seek legal alternatives, despite the policy debate.
Health concerns and reported harms
Dependence and withdrawal
Clinicians and toxicologists have documented cases of dependence, withdrawal, or adverse events tied to kratom, especially with frequent, high‑dose, or concentrated use and with co‑use of other substances. Because alkaloid levels vary widely across products, the risk profile is hard to predict. Withdrawal can be managed with professional kratom detox
Overdose and interactions
Emergency departments have reported kratom‑involved visits, often involving multiple substances, see data on kratom‑involved overdose deaths. Federal agencies warn of respiratory depression risk when opioid‑like compounds are taken in high doses or with other central nervous system depressants. Concentrated 7‑OH heightens those concerns, according to the FDA.
Policymakers and public‑health responses
Federal focus on 7‑OH
Regulators have prioritized 7‑OH due to its potency and marketing as an “opioid‑like” product sold in convenience settings. The FDA’s recommendation to schedule 7‑OH would trigger a DEA review process. Health authorities say the goal is to prevent a new wave of opioid‑type harms from engineered products.
New Jersey proposals and debates
New Jersey has explored updates to drug definitions and penalties in recent sessions. Some proposals would tighten control of certain compounds or address analogues. Stakeholders differ on whether New Jersey should adopt a kratom‑specific regulatory framework, set age limits and testing rules, or take broader action against concentrates.
Industry and advocacy views
Kratom Consumer Protection Acts (KCPA)
Kratom advocates, including the American Kratom Association, often back KCPA‑style bills that require age gates, product testing, labeling, and bans on adulterants, rather than bans on kratom leaf. They argue that adult consumers deserve access to standardized, contaminant‑free products and that regulation should target 7‑OH concentrates and unsafe manufacturing. (General advocacy position summarized; details vary by state.)
What both sides agree on
Even as stakeholders disagree on policy, many agree that purity standards, truthful labels, and age restrictions can reduce harm. There is broader consensus that concentrated 7‑OH deserves stricter scrutiny than traditional kratom powder or tea.
Could it be fueling a new wave of addiction?
Public‑health leaders warn that engineered, high‑potency products—including 7‑OH—could add fuel to the ongoing crisis, similar to how illicit synthetic opioids amplified harm in recent years. While kratom leaf remains legal in many places, the mix of potency, variability, and marketing keeps officials cautious. Evidence continues to evolve, and policies are likely to follow that evidence.
What New Jersey consumers should know
Practical points for adults considering these products
- Know the difference between kratom leaf/powder and concentrated 7‑OH products. The latter are the subject of the FDA’s recent push for control due to opioid‑like potency.
- Assume variability. Alkaloid levels differ by brand and batch; labels may not reflect actual content.
- Avoid co‑use with opioids, benzodiazepines, alcohol, or sedating medications due to respiratory‑depression risk.
- Watch for dependence. If daily use escalates or stopping causes symptoms, seek medical advice.
If you or someone close is at risk of opioid exposure, carry Naloxone (Narcan).
If you need help
New Jersey residents can contact ReachNJ for screening, referrals, and connections to local treatment providers regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.
How Nova Recovery Center Helps Individuals Overcome Kratom Addiction
Nova Recovery Center provides comprehensive support for individuals struggling with kratom addiction and abuse. Our programs are designed to address both the physical dependence and the underlying issues that contribute to substance use. With a structured continuum of care, we guide clients through detox, residential treatment, and long-term rehab tailored to their needs. Evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and relapse prevention strategies help clients build the tools necessary for lasting recovery. We also integrate holistic approaches to support mental, emotional, and physical well-being throughout treatment. For those affected by kratom’s potent compounds, our experienced team offers medical oversight and personalized treatment plans that prioritize safety and long-term success. Family involvement and peer support are central to our philosophy, creating a community where clients can heal and rebuild healthy relationships. At Nova Recovery Center, the goal is to equip each individual with the knowledge, coping skills, and confidence needed to achieve lasting sobriety and improve overall quality of life, then continue care in an intensive outpatient program (IOP).
Frequently Asked Questions About Kratom, 7‑OH, and New Jersey Law
What is kratom?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a Southeast Asian tree; its leaves contain alkaloids (notably mitragynine and 7‑OH) that can act as stimulants at low doses and produce opioid‑like effects at higher doses.
Is kratom legal in New Jersey?
As of today, kratom is not scheduled in New Jersey; lawmakers have introduced bills to regulate or criminalize certain kratom products, but proposals are pending. Always check the latest state updates.
Is kratom legal at the federal level?
Federally, kratom is not controlled under the Controlled Substances Act, though the FDA warns against its use and says kratom products are not lawfully marketed as drugs or dietary supplements.
What is 7‑hydroxymitragynine (7‑OH)?
7‑OH is a kratom alkaloid (and mitragynine metabolite) that binds mu‑opioid receptors and drives much of the opioid‑like activity seen in some products—especially concentrated forms.
Is 7‑OH really “more potent than morphine”?
In preclinical assays, 7‑OH has shown higher analgesic potency than morphine; however, results vary by model and do not directly equal real‑world risk for every product or dose.
What is the FDA’s position on kratom and 7‑OH?
The FDA warns consumers not to use kratom, says no kratom products are legally marketed, and is taking action to restrict 7‑OH products while recommending that 7‑OH be scheduled due to opioid‑like risks.
Is the DEA scheduling kratom or 7‑OH?
DEA previously considered scheduling kratom’s alkaloids (2016) but did not finalize it; kratom remains unscheduled federally. The FDA has recommended scheduling 7‑OH, which would proceed through DEA review.
Is kratom addictive?
Yes. Reports and clinical sources describe dependence and withdrawal in some users, particularly with frequent or high‑dose use.
What side effects are associated with kratom?
Documented effects include nausea, constipation, dizziness, sedation, and in some cases seizures, liver toxicity, and respiratory depression—especially with concentrated products or polysubstance use.
Can kratom help with opioid withdrawal?
Some people report using kratom to self‑manage withdrawal, but it is not FDA‑approved for this use and may itself lead to dependence and withdrawal.
Can you overdose on kratom or 7‑OH?
Kratom‑involved overdoses have been reported (often with other substances present). Concentrated 7‑OH products raise additional concern among health authorities.
Does naloxone (Narcan) reverse a kratom or 7‑OH overdose?
Case reports show naloxone can reverse opioid‑like toxidromes from kratom; public‑health advisories also recommend carrying naloxone for suspected 7‑OH overdoses, though response can vary.
Is kratom legal in the U.S. but regulated by states?
Yes. Federal law does not schedule kratom, but states take different approaches—ranging from consumer‑protection acts to bans or age limits.
Why is 7‑OH in the news now?
Recent FDA actions target concentrated 7‑OH products sold in convenience settings, citing opioid‑receptor activity, high potency, and growing availability in vapes, gummies, and beverages.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Kratom and its compounds, including 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), may carry health risks and should not be used without medical guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any substance or supplement. If you experience severe side effects, signs of withdrawal, or thoughts of self-harm, call 911 in the United States or seek emergency medical help right away. For confidential mental health support, you can dial 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
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