L.A. County Bans Kratom and 7-OH Products Immediately
Los Angeles County health officials have ordered an immediate ban on the sale of kratom and its synthetic extract 7-OH. Inspectors will begin red-tagging these products in stores next week, with non-compliant retailers facing fines and penalties.
Key Takeaways
- Immediate sales ban on kratom and 7-OH products in L.A. County
- Six kratom-related deaths reported in recent months
- 7-OH products can cause fatal respiratory depression when mixed with other substances
- Products are unregulated and contain unknown concentrations
What Are Kratom and 7-OH?
Kratom is an herbal extract from Southeast Asian trees, sold as powders, pills, and liquids claiming to address pain and anxiety. 7-OH is a synthetic, more potent version refined into its psychoactive compound 7-Hydroxymitragynine.
Matthew Lowe of the Global Kratom Coalition stated natural kratom has been used for over 50 years in the U.S. However, 7-OH products are often misleadingly marketed as “plant alkaloids,” confusing consumers.
Health Risks and Recent Deaths
The county health department warns that 7-OH products “can cause severe respiratory depression and death” when mixed with alcohol, medications, or illicit drugs. There have been six reported kratom-related deaths in L.A. County in recent months.
“Kratom and 7-OH products are sold as natural remedies, but they are illegal and unsafe,” said Dr. Muntu Davis, the county health officer. “People should avoid using these products.”
Regulatory Status and Industry Response
The FDA states kratom and 7-OH are not lawfully marketed in the U.S. as drugs, dietary supplements, or food additives. California classifies them as adulterants until approved.
Meanwhile, 7-OH producers defend their products as safer alternatives to opioids. Vince Sanders of CBD American Shaman argued bans would harm people who rely on 7-OH for pain management and substance abuse treatment.
Local Actions and Future Concerns
Several California communities have already prohibited kratom sales. Lowe warned that outright bans could create black markets and enforcement challenges, leaving consumers to seek products elsewhere.
