ASAM Comments on the Temporary Scheduling of 7-OH

On July 30, 2026, ASAM submitted comments to the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regarding the proposed temporary scheduling of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), recognizing concerns about the risks associated with concentrated 7-OH products, including dependence, withdrawal, inconsistent product composition, and limited regulatory oversight. ASAM highlighted that the current scientific evidence is insufficient to support any specific concentration or quantity threshold as a validated indicator of an imminent public safety risk.

ASAM recommended that any interim thresholds be described as precautionary measures subject to reassessment as new data becomes available. ASAM also called for expanded research on 7-OH's pharmacology, toxicology, dependence and withdrawal potential, and real-world health impacts, while encouraging policymakers to explore a broader FDA regulatory framework for psychoactive botanical products that would strengthen product safety, labeling, surveillance, and consumer protections.

Read ASAM's comments here.