By: Erik Avanier – News 4 Jax –
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A popular over-the-counter drug known as 7-OH is now illegal in Florida, following growing concerns about its health risks.
7-OH, short for 7-Hydroxymitragynine, is an extract from the kratom plant. Previously sold in smoke shops and convenience stores across the state, it was marketed as a wellness supplement and alternative painkiller. While available in liquid form, 7-OH was most commonly sold as pills, gummies, and even vapes.
According to Dr. Dawn Sollee, a toxicologist with the Florida Poison Control Center, 7-OH has opioid-like effects, which can make it seem attractive to those seeking pain relief without a prescription.
However, he said there are underlying risks that many may not be aware of.
“People are using this product that has a higher potential for addiction and a higher potential for withdrawal, and side effects,” Dr. Sollee explained.
Additionally, because 7-OH products were never regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), some versions contained dangerously high concentrations of the extract.
“They make it available in gummies and tablets, pill form and vapes,” Dr. Sollee said. “So now people are using this product that has a higher potential for addiction.”
Health experts warn that the colorful packaging and candy-like forms of 7-OH products pose a particular risk to children.
“The real danger is when you have children who are getting exposed to these products,” Dr. Sollee noted. “Their bodies are so small and they can’t take the dosage that an adult can take, and these are so highly potent.”
On Wednesday, the Florida Attorney General announced an immediate ban on all 7-OH products,following a recommendation from the FDA. The ban makes it illegal to sell, possess, or distribute any isolated or concentrated form of 7-OH in Florida.
“We are taking emergency action now because we see immediate danger. Last week the FDA commissioner issued a warning about 7-OH, putting people on notice to the dangers, calling on states to observe and take action where necessary. So here in Florida, we are not going to rest on our laurels. We move fast. We want to help lead the way when it comes to public safety,” Uthmeier said.
And one local business has already taken action to comply with the announcement.
Jason Hambrecht, owner of Speakeasy Vaporium, said, “Pulled it all. Got here before we opened. Pulled everything off the shelves, put it in trash bags, and took it to a hazardous waste facility.” He added that it was better to be safe than sorry.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is currently reviewing the FDA’s recommendation to reclassify 7-OH as a Schedule I controlled substance, which would place it in the same category as heroin and LSD.
For now, Florida residents are urged to avoid any products containing 7-OH and to be aware of the risks associated with unregulated supplements.
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