FDA Seeks Regulation For “Opioid-Like” Chemical Found in Some Gas Station, Vape Store Products 

Today, we’re taking action on 7-OH as a critical step in the fight against opioid addiction. We will protect the health of our nation’s youth as we advance our mission to Make America Healthy Again.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on the recommendation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to classify 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) – a potent, “opioid-like” compound – as an illegal substance.

Why It Matters: 7-OH, a powerful derivative of the kratom plant, triggers effects similar to opioids and often appears in unregulated products sold at gas stations and vape shops – including gummies, drinks, and supplements. While some use kratom as a natural remedy for pain, anxiety or drug withdrawal, Professor Chris McCurdy of the University of Florida says compounds like 7-OH extracted from the plant can deliver effects as potent as Everclear – a grain alcohol that’s 190 proof.  

Health Secretary Kennedy warns that manufacturers often market these products to children: “They’re gummy bears, they’re bright colors, they’re candy flavored. This is really a sinister, sinister industry.” Recent federal data suggests nearly 9% of Americans ages 12 and older have used kratom products. 

What’s Next: The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will now review the FDA’s recommendation. If approved, 7-OH would become a Schedule I controlled substance – a category that includes heroin and ecstasy. 

Another Perspective: Jeff Smith, national policy director for the Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust – an advocacy organization promoting the use of plant-based products to combat opioid addiction – responded to the FDA’s announcement: “Since today’s announcement did not reference any concrete public health data, we can only conclude that instead of public health being paramount, other interests may be driving policy decisions. The FDA needs to hear from researchers, toxicologists, and addiction science experts — and from the American people. Cutting off access helps no one, but it will hurt many.” 

See examples of products containing 7-OH HERE.

Learn More: 

• FDA Takes Steps to Restrict 7-OH Opioid Products Threatening American Consumers | HHS.gov 
• Kratom 7-OH: What to know about the supplement dubbed “legal morphine” (Axios) 
• FDA asks Justice Department to classify gas station products with opioid-like effects as illicit substances (NBC News) 

Image Credit: FDA