Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has taken a firm stance against the sale of a potentially dangerous substance found in gas stations and smoke shops nationwide. During a press conference on Tuesday, Kennedy, alongside FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, announced a push to classify 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a compound present in kratom leaves, as a Schedule I drug. This classification would place 7-OH amongst substances considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.
Kennedy’s call to action comes amidst concerns that 7-OH, which is being marketed in various forms such as drinks, gummies, and powders, could lead to a "fourth wave of opioid addiction." The substance binds to the mu receptor in the brain, an action characteristic of opioids, making it scientifically an opioid, as per FDA Commissioner Makary’s statement. Makary highlighted the compound's potency, noting it is 13 times more potent than morphine.
The announcement, covered by the Daily Mail, underscored the urgency of addressing the issue to prevent a repeat of the opioid crises of the 1990s and 2010s. Kennedy, drawing from personal experience, stressed the role of availability in sparking addiction. His aim is to cut off access to 7-OH before it precipitates a crisis similar to the one he faced.
Makary clarified that the government's focus is not kratom itself but the synthetic, concentrated by-product 7-OH. The DEA's review of HHS's recommendation to schedule the drug is expected to be fast-tracked, potentially taking up to six months, followed by a public comment period of 30 to 60 days.
Deputy HHS Secretary Jim O’Neill accused the industry of marketing 7-OH deceptively, targeting vulnerable populations such as young people, veterans, and chronic pain sufferers with the guise of safe alternatives. Attorney General Pam Bondi supported this stance with data showing a correlation between vape and smoke shops and rising overdose deaths.
Products like the "Feel Free" tonic have become notorious for their immediate effects, leading to a quick buzz followed by reports of dependency. The HHS has noted an increase in emergency room visits related to 7-OH, predominantly involving young adults, chronic pain sufferers, and veterans.
Kennedy and Makary warned that without intervention, the U.S. could face another addiction epidemic, this time fueled by a legally sold substance. RFK Jr. condemned the industry as "SINISTER," highlighting the personal and societal risks posed by 7-OH.
