A synthetic opioid derived from the kratom plant sold in gummies, tablets, and drink mixes is slated to be restricted due to concerns that it has a serious potential for abuse.
The compound is called 7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly known as 7-OH. It occurs naturally in trace amounts in kratom. Products containing 7-OH have potentially dangerous, enhanced levels and are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the recommendation on June 29, saying that the 7-OH should be scheduled under the Controlled Substances Act because of its ability to bind to opioid receptors, which makes it a pain reliever that can be more powerful than morphine….