While opioid use in workers’ compensation claims is decreasing, overall, there is still an opioid crisis with over 54,000 deaths in 2024.1 Because of this, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) monitors opioids and opioid derivatives to protect the public from potential harm.
On July 29, 2025, the FDA announced a public health action recommending that 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) products become a scheduled drug under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This is due to growing concerns over its unregulated sale in gummies, drink mixes and ice cream cones, which are often marketed to youth and sold in vape shops, gas stations and online. The DEA will review the FDA’s recommendation.
7-OH is an opioid derivative of the kratom plant with a potency that exceeds morphine. It is sold in concentrated products and has a high abuse potential. This FDA action does not target natural kratom leaves.
There are no FDA-approved uses for 7-OH, and it is not permitted in dietary supplements or conventional foods. 7-OH products are not something we expect to see in workers’ compensation claims. However, MyMatrixx is dedicated to helping our clients monitor and manage the cost and utilization of opioids and other pain medications within their claims. As such, we will continue to watch FDA and DEA actions on opioids and opioid derivatives to keep our clients informed of potential risks.
1. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/nchs_press_releases/2025/20250514.
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MyMatrixx is dedicated to helping our clients monitor and manage the cost, utilization and safety of opioids and other pain medications within their claims and making sure our clients and the injured workers we serve are informed of the risks of opioids. If you have any questions, please reach out to your MyMatrixx account team.