Florida Targets 7-OH Kratom to Curb Opioid Risks

Florida has moved swiftly to ban 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a concentrated kratom byproduct, classifying it as a Schedule 1 substance effective immediately. State officials emphasized the rule aims to protect young people amid rising emergency room visits linked to 7-OH products, often sold as shots, gummies, or drink mixes. Attorney General James Uthmeier announced enforcement could begin as early as Aug. 14, while Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson urged retailers to remove affected items from shelves. Federal officials signaled support, with FDA Commissioner Marty Makary calling 7-OH the “fourth wave” of the opioid epidemic and noting efforts to secure federal scheduling. Leaders stressed the action targets 7-OH—not kratom leaf itself—reflecting a focused approach to consumer safety. Read the full report at USA TODAY.