7-OH:The Hidden Opioid Inside Kratom
7-OH:The Hidden Opioid Inside Kratom

The Addiction Files

Drs. Petersen and Cook discuss the dangers of 7-OH in kratom, its health risks, and the importance of proper regulation. They offer insights into managing kratom use disorders.

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30:07•24 Mar 2026

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About this podcast

The Addiction Files

Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Cook, MD

Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Cook, MD are board certified addiction medicine and family medicine physicians providing evidence based education, clinical pearls and resources to physicians, residents and students while striving to destigmatize the treatment of addiction in our medical culture and save lives. Tune in to learn about the latest treatments for all things addiction. Join us as we conduct expert interviews, review clinical pearls and best practices and discuss the latest updates in addiction medicine. No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

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Kratom's Hidden Opioid: What You Need to Know

Episode Overview

Kratom contains a potent opioid-active compound, 7-OH.
High-potency kratom products pose significant health risks.
Withdrawal management is similar to treating opioid withdrawal.
Kratom is often marketed as safe, misleading many users.
Regulatory measures are needed to control kratom's impact.

“"Kratom is often marketed as safe, but with 7-OH, it's a whole different ball game."”

What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? In this episode of The Addiction Files, Drs. Darlene Petersen and Paula Cook tackle the complex topic of kratom, specifically focusing on 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent opioid-active compound. With humour and candour, they unravel the pharmacology of kratom, its potential risks, and the worrying rise in high-potency products.

You'll learn about the different types of kratom leaves, like white vein and red vein, and how their varying alkaloid compositions can lead to different effects. The doctors share alarming statistics about kratom-related poison control calls and deaths, painting a picture of a growing public health concern. The episode doesn't just highlight problems; it also provides practical advice for managing kratom use disorders. From withdrawal management to the importance of regulatory measures, Drs.

Petersen and Cook offer a comprehensive guide for medical professionals and anyone interested in addiction treatment. They delve into the marketing tactics that make kratom seem harmless and discuss the importance of educating both patients and lawmakers. This episode is an eye-opener for those curious about the hidden dangers of kratom and the ongoing efforts to manage its impact. So, how can you ensure you're informed about the substances you or your loved ones might encounter?

Tune in to find out.

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