The Santa Barbara County Health Department and Sheriff’s Office are urging residents to steer clear of products containing Kratom and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). These substances pose serious risks, including addiction, overdose, and even death.
In recent reports, two fatal overdoses in Santa Barbara County in 2025 were linked to Kratom. This emphasizes the growing dangers associated with these substances, which are illegal to sell or manufacture in California. Despite this, they still turn up in places like gas stations and online shops, often marketed as “natural” remedies.
Dr. Henning Ansorg, the County Health Officer, warns, “These products might seem like wellness options, but they can lead to severe harm, including fatal outcomes. The best choice is not to use them at all.”
Health Risks
Kratom and 7-OH come from the kratom plant, with 7-OH being a potent opioid. Users have reported serious side effects, like:
- Addiction and withdrawal
- Anxiety and insomnia
- Seizures
- Respiratory depression
- Overdose and death
Sheriff Bill Brown confirmed that the two recent deaths in the county involved Kratom as a factor, although the specific amounts consumed remain unknown. “Although they are often labeled as natural remedies, they are dangerous and can result in fatal overdoses,” he stressed.
Staying Safe
Here are some steps residents can take to protect themselves:
- Avoid products with Kratom or 7-OH. These can appear as drinks, powders, gummies, and are often marketed to look like sweets or health products.
- Read labels carefully to prevent accidental consumption.
- Carry naloxone. This medication can reverse opioid overdoses and is available without a prescription.
Recognizing Overdose
If someone is unresponsive, here’s how to act:
- Give naloxone right away.
- Call 911.
- Ensure they stay awake and breathing.
- Position them on their side to reduce choking risk.
- Stay with them until help arrives.
If you or someone you know experiences negative effects after using Kratom or 7-OH, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or visit www.poisonhelp.org for immediate assistance.
To report illegal sales of these products, call the CDPH Complaint Hotline at (800) 495-3232 or submit an electronic report to the CDPH Food and Drug Branch.
Final Thoughts
The increasing use of Kratom raises concerns about public health. The American Association of Poison Control Centers recently reported nearly 1,300 exposures to Kratom in 2021, showing a sharp rise in its prevalence. Keeping informed and cautious can help reduce these troubling statistics and ensure community safety.
