CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — A legal opioid readily available across America has sparked public warnings and increased state oversight, yet the drug is still legally sold in stores throughout the Palmetto State.

People from every walk of life are taking kratom or its active component, 7-OH, with some becoming quickly addicted.

Just like millions of Americans, Johns Island local Adrian Wilson suffered from COVID in 2023. Struggling with his symptoms, Wilson turned to an herbal remedy for his sore throat.

“Within two minutes, my sore throat was not sore anymore,” Wilson said. “The anxiety went down; it totally helped me.”

Lowcountry man quickly became addicted

But soon after picking up kratom from a local vape shop, Wilson said he quickly became addicted and turned to a stronger version of

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