ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Authorities in Florida have initiated an urgent response to combat the growing threat posed by a potent substance derived from the kratom plant known as 7-OH. This substance, which has been linked to numerous fatalities statewide, is now facing immediate restrictions following the actions of state and federal officials.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that 7-OH will be classified as a Schedule One drug, a category that indicates a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. During a press conference, he emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We’re taking emergency action to prohibit and reschedule this dangerous substance.”
This crackdown specifically targets 7-OH, a concentrated extract of kratom, which is a tropical tree indigenous to Southeast Asia. While the plant itself is not being banned, officials are concerned about the increased potency of its byproduct. Experts warn that 7-OH can be significantly more lethal than substances like morphine. “Imagine a teenager going in and buying a gummy that’s 13 times more potent than morphine,” noted Charles J. Lockwood, Executive Vice President of USF Health, underscoring the risks associated with its accessibility.
The versatility of 7-OH, appearing in products such as gummy candies, tablets, tea shots, and wellness supplements, raises particular concern for public health. These various forms make it easier for young people to obtain and use the substance without awareness of its dangers.
Despite the heightened scrutiny, Uthmeier reassured the public that the state is not proposing a blanket ban on kratom itself, emphasizing the focus on the more chemically altered products derived from it. “This is not prohibiting kratom — this is a highly chemically enhanced product,” he explained, clarifying the intent of the new regulations.
Officials are drawing lessons from past drug epidemics—particularly those involving fentanyl and prescription medications—which have demonstrated the potential for rapid escalation in substance abuse crises. “We cannot get caught off guard again,” warned Dr. Marty Makary, FDA Commissioner, echoing the sentiments of colleagues about the importance of proactive measures.
The emergency ban is effective immediately, necessitating that retailers remove 7-OH products from their shelves. Enforcement of the new regulations could commence as early as Thursday morning, marking a decisive step in the state’s efforts to address this emerging public health crisis. As Florida moves forward, officials remain vigilant in their commitment to safeguard the health and well-being of its residents, especially the youth who may be most at risk.