Florida Attorney General Takes Emergency Action Against 7-Hydroxymitragynine, Reclassifying It as a Schedule 1 Drug

Florida Attorney General Takes Emergency Action Against Potent Synthetic Drug 7-Hydroxymitragynine

TAMPA, FL – In a significant move to safeguard public health, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced on Wednesday that his office is implementing emergency measures to prohibit the sale of “7-hydroxymitragynine,” commonly referred to as “7-OH.” This decision reclassifies the substance as a Schedule I drug, following recent actions by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

During a press conference in Tampa, Uthmeier emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that 7-OH, a synthetic compound derived from the Southeast Asian kratom plant, can be up to 13 times more potent than morphine. “It is an opioid, scientifically meeting the criteria of an opioid,” Uthmeier stated. “Yet, you can find it in vape shops across America, almost as easily as buying a cup of coffee.”

The alarming accessibility of 7-OH has raised concerns among health officials. FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary echoed these sentiments, warning that the crisis is “right in front of us.” The substance is often marketed in enticing forms, such as candy-flavored gummies, shots, and vapes, making it particularly appealing to younger consumers.

However, the decision has sparked debate. Opponents of the FDA’s recent actions argue that 7-OH could serve as a potential tool for individuals recovering from opioid addiction. The Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust (HART) highlighted data indicating a 30% drop in opioid overdoses in Florida last year, attributing some of this decline to the use of kratom-derived products.

While kratom itself has been associated with various health benefits, Uthmeier and Makary clarified that their focus is specifically on the synthetic extract of 7-OH. “Our focus is not on the kratom leaf,” Makary explained. “There is the kratom leaf that has trace amounts of 7-OH and then there is synthetic concentrated kratom, which is popping up in vape stores across America.”

Uthmeier noted that emergency actions of this nature are rare and must reflect a genuine public health emergency. He expressed hope that the Florida legislature will thoroughly examine the issue, as they play a crucial role in finalizing these actions.

Looking ahead, a final ruling from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) could take several months, including a 30-to-60-day public comment period. As Florida grapples with the implications of this potent substance, the conversation surrounding its regulation continues to evolve.

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