AI-assisted summary
Florida recently banned the sale of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent opioid derived from kratom.
While proponents argue 7-OH helps opioid recovery, health officials warn of its potential dangers and lack of human studies.
Emergency calls related to kratom/7-OH overdoses are increasing, raising further alarm.
Until recently, it was legal to sell a certain opioid over the counter in Florida, one that is 13 times more powerful than morphine.
The drug – 7-hydroxymitragynine, also known as 7-OH – has only been on the market for two years but researchers, harm reduction advocates and public health officials are warning of its potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms.
Florida put 7-OH on the Schedule I list of drugs on Aug. 13 after the U.S. Food and Drug Adm