7-OH vs. Morphine: Which One Is Stronger?

Is7ohstrongerthanmorphine
April 7, 2025 | Elyxr's Blog

Morphine has been the go-to choice for deep relaxation and an overall sense of well-being for years. But now, there’s a new name in the game—7-OH. 

The debate between the two is intense, and if you’re wondering which one truly stands out, you’re not alone! 

Here’s something surprising: 7-OH is nearly 13 times stronger than morphine. But does that mean it’s the better option for relaxation and other benefits? Read on to find out.

What is 7-OH?

7-OH or 7-hydroxymitragynine is an active alkaloid that is derived from mitragynine, an active compound in kratom (Mitragyna speciosa). While mitragynine is abundant in kratom, 7-OH is still present in smaller amounts but is way more potent in its effects.

This naturally occurring alkaloid can also be produced in the body when mitragynine is metabolized, primarily in the liver. 7-OH works by binding to the mu-opioid receptors(MOR), similar to that of traditional opioids, only with greater effects.

The MOR receptors in the central nervous system, after getting activated, release neurotransmitters such as dopamine, endorphins, and enkephalins. The release of these neurotransmitters thus modulates pain perception, mood, and other psychological processes.

Potential Uses

Here are some potential uses of 7-OH:

Pain Management

7-OH helps in managing chronic pain and acute pain, such as arthritis, neuropathic pain, postoperative pain, pain from injuries, etc.

Anti Inflammation

7-OH also helps in reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines which helps in reduction of inflammation and inflammatory pain.

Mood Regulation

7-OH also reacts with serotonin receptors which are receptors responsible for mood regulation. It also stimulates the release of dopamine, thus providing pleasure and better mood.

Sleep Aid

7-OH is known for its anxiolytic effects which means that it helps in reducing anxiety, helping you relax, and thus promoting sleep.

Understanding Morphine and Its Effects

Morphine is a potent opioid analgesic that is extracted from the opium poppy. It was earlier called ‘morphia’ and has been widely used for managing moderate to severe pain. It has been used for patients during cancer treatment and for several terminal illnesses as well.

Like 7-OH, morphine too binds itself to MORs present in the central nervous system. After the activation of these opioid receptors or MORs, it produces analgesic effects including pain perception, increased pain tolerance, and also relieves anxiety or stress caused by pain.

However while morphine does seem pretty beneficial with its uses,  there are a few side effects of morphine too. These usually include nausea, constipation, dizziness, itching, etc. In the long term, morphine also has a high potential for abuse, making it addictive.

Comparing the Potency: Is 7-OH Stronger Than Morphine?

Here are a few major differences to compare the potency of 7-OH to morphine:

Features  7-OH  Morphine 
Effectiveness  It is way more potent than morphine, even in small doses, almost 13 times more potent. It is a potent analgesic for moderate to severe pain.
Duration Its effects last for 6 to 8 hours or even longer. Way more than morphine. Its effects last for 4 to 6 hours.
Legal Status 7-OH is not considered as a controlled substance and is therefore legal in most States. Morphine is Scheduled as a controlled substance and is also not legal in many States.

Apart from this, there are several factors that are responsible for the effects, such as metabolism and individual tolerance. Some people who metabolize opioids quickly can have a reduced duration of their action, while others experience prolonged effects.

Is 7-OH the Better Choice?

7-OH is undoubtedly stronger than morphine, and even in very small quantities, it delivers powerful effects. But the best part is that it addresses one of the biggest concerns with morphine that is dependency. Since morphine is highly addictive, many people seek alternatives that offer similar benefits without the same level of risk.

So, if you’re looking for something potent, 7-OH could be the right choice for you. However, the most important thing is to use it responsibly and ensure you’re getting only high-quality, lab-tested products.

We prioritize safety and quality, offering third-party lab-tested products that are both effective and affordable. Check out our range today and experience the difference!