STAT+: Trump pivots on kratom derivative 7-OH, floating approval for some forms

STAT PlusHealth Trump pivots on kratom derivative 7-OH, floating approval for some forms FDA had warned that natural opioids in kratom were being turned into harmful products Manage alerts for this article Email this article Share this article By Lev FacherMay 11, 2026 Addiction Reporter Lev Facher[email protected]Lev Facher covers the U.S. addiction and overdose crisis. President Trump on Monday suggested the federal government could move to approve some forms of 7-OH, an opioid derived from the naturally occurring kratom plant. “We’re looking very seriously at natural 7-OH and getting that approved,” Trump said. Advertisement It was not clear what Trump meant by “natural 7-OH.” Small amounts of the compound, shorthand for 7-hydroxymitragynine, occur naturally in kratom, which is increasingly used as a recreational drug and an unapproved pain treatment. While kratom is significantly less dangerous than potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl or prescription pain pills, it can still cause addiction and overdose. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in Monthly $39 Totals $468 per year $39/month Get Started Totals $468 per year Starter $30 for 3 months, then $399/year $30 for 3 months Get Started Then $399/year Annual $399 Save 15% $399/year Get Started Save 15% 11+ Users Custom Savings start at 25%! Request A Quote Request A Quote Savings start at 25%! 2-10 Users $300 Annually per user $300/year Get Started $300 Annually per user View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Log In addiction, FDA, opioids, pain, psychedelics, public health, STAT+, White House Submit a correction requestReprints Lev Facher Addiction Reporter Lev Facher covers the U.S. addiction and overdose crisis. Newsletter Understand how science, health policy, and medicine shape the world every day Recommended Exclusive May 11, 2026 STAT Plus: Medicare is spending far less than expected on new Alzheimer’s drugs Politics May 11, 2026 STAT Plus: Provider, insurer groups rush to shape No Surprises Act arbitration rules Advertisement Health May 9, 2026 Experts wonder ‘Where is the CDC?’ as hantavirus outbreak unfolds Politics May 8, 2026 Trump reportedly plans to fire FDA Commissioner Makary Politics May 8, 2026 Former FDA leaders, pharma speak out on mifepristone Subscriber Picks