Why the FDA wants to restrict kratom-related products

The compound is currently sold across the United States

FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary holds up a 7-OH product during a press conference
FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary holds up a 7-OH product during a press conference
(Image credit: Saul Loeb / AFP via Getty Images)

The Food and Drug Administration is sounding the alarm on a widely used narcotic and is recommending that steps be taken to restrict its availability. The substance, called 7-hydroxymitragynine or 7-OH, is a synthetic derivative of the kratom leaf, which is commonly used for pain relief. But unlike kratom itself, experts say 7-OH has an opioid-like quality, which makes it addictive and easily abused. That is why the FDA is concerned about its increasing availability nationwide.

'More potent than morphine'

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Justin Klawans, The Week US

Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.