Florida Department of Health issues statewide warning about dangerous opioid

Tallahassee, Florida – Health officials in Florida are sounding the alarm over a growing public health concern involving opioid-like substances being sold in everyday retail locations across the state. The Florida Department of Health has issued a warning about 7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly referred to as 7-OH, and related derivatives that are increasingly appearing in gas stations, vape shops, and convenience stores.

These compounds are being marketed in a way that can make them seem harmless or even appealing, but officials say the reality is far more serious. Despite colorful packaging, sweet flavors, and product forms like gummies, drinks, and tablets, the substances can have powerful effects on the body and pose significant health risks.

State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo emphasized that while some kratom products are used without reported issues, concentrated versions such as 7-OH carry far greater dangers due to their potency and how they interact with the body.

“Floridians should know the risks associated with these 7-OH products,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. “While many Floridians use kratom safely, concentrated products like 7-OH are much more dangerous, act on the same receptors as opioids and have been associated with serious adverse health effects, including respiratory depression, seizures, and addiction.”

Officials warn that these products are often positioned as natural or safer alternatives, but that labeling can be misleading. In many cases, packaging uses bright colors or candy-like branding that may attract younger consumers or individuals unfamiliar with the risks.

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The Florida Department of Health is urging parents, teachers, healthcare providers, and community leaders to become more aware of these substances and to talk with young people about the dangers they may pose. Officials say education is key in preventing accidental misuse and reducing exposure.

Reports from poison control centers across Florida and the United States indicate a rise in calls involving 7-OH and similar compounds. Medical symptoms linked to exposure include dizziness, confusion, headaches, nausea, vomiting, tremors, hallucinations, and reduced mental alertness. In more severe cases, patients have experienced respiratory depression, seizures, and life-threatening respiratory failure.

Health officials say the growing number of cases highlights how quickly these substances are spreading and how little many consumers may understand about their effects. Because they are sold in familiar retail environments, many people may not realize they are purchasing products that can have opioid-like impacts.

The Department of Health has also outlined specific warning signs for identifying these products in stores. These include labels that reference “7-OH,” “7-OHMZ,” “7-Hydroxy,” “MGM-15,” or “MGM-16,” as well as products sold in forms such as gummies, powders, drink mixers, shots, or tablets. Officials also caution consumers about items that claim to be natural, safe, or risk-free alternatives, saying such claims can be misleading.

Anyone who experiences adverse effects after using these products is urged to seek immediate medical attention. In suspected cases of poisoning or overdose, officials recommend contacting the Florida Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or calling 911.

Public health leaders say the situation reflects a broader challenge involving emerging synthetic and semi-synthetic substances that can appear in legal retail spaces before their risks are fully understood. Florida officials say they are closely monitoring the issue and working to raise awareness before further harm occurs.

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The Florida Department of Health stated that the state remains committed to identifying new threats to public safety and providing timely information to residents. Officials say the goal is to ensure families have the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and avoid potentially dangerous products.

As concerns continue to grow, health authorities are encouraging communities to stay alert and to treat unfamiliar or heavily marketed wellness products with caution, especially when they promise strong effects or quick relief.