Cracking down on kratom

SANDUSKY — The Ohio Board of Pharmacy recently issued an emergency rule, making "all forms of kratom-related products illegal to sell, possess or distribute in the state of Ohio." In its natural form, kratom is a leaf indigenous to Southeast Asia that is used as an herbal substance that produces a stimulant and opioid-like effect. Kratom-related products are synthetic versions of the natural substance called "7-OH" that stimulates opioid receptors in the body. Some brands market Kratom-related products as "all-natural" or as alternatives to opioids. "We're already seeing the impact of these products, sometimes called 'gas station heroin,' firsthand at the Erie County Detox" center, said Stephanie Salyer, a registered nurse and the chief behavioral health officer for the Erie County Health Department. "We've treated patients struggling with severe kratom dependency and withdrawal," Salyer added. "These products are far from harmless: They carry a high risk of addiction and can lead to serious medical complications. If you or a loved one is struggling, please know that you don't have to face it alone. Our team is here to help with medically supervised support and a path toward recovery." What falls under the ban? The banned Kratom-related products include all derivative forms of kratom, including: • 7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly referred to as "7-OH" • Mitragynine pseudoindoxyl • Dihydro-7-hydroxy mitragynine • 7-acetoxymitragynine • Counter names for these products include smurphs, oxin, opia and ohmzconez Note: This rule does not apply to isolated mitragynine, including products that are made of natural kratom in its vegetation, leaf, form. "The emergency ban on synthetic kratom-related products, like '7-OH,' is a vital step in addressing a rapidly evolving public health threat," Erie County health commissioner Pete Schade said. "While these substances are often sold alongside natural supplements, these high-potency derivatives carry an extreme risk of toxicity and overdose," Schade added. Help is here Salyer re-emphasized that her agency can help those who have become or are addicted to kratom-related products. "We want the community to know that help is available right here in Erie County for anyone struggling," Salyer said. "You can call the detox at 419-624-3353. We're here to help."