Federal authorities and lawmakers are increasingly worried about products derived from the kratom plant, often referred to as ‘gas station opioids.’ The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has indicated a plan to temporarily ban these products, which contain high concentrations of specific compounds.
Earlier this year, the DEA announced its intention to temporarily classify substances like 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI), MGM-15, and MGM-16 as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification would apply to concentrated extracts rather than the natural form of kratom sold over the counter.
The status of kratom varies across states. In nine states, kratom is banned completely. Over 30 states impose regulations, including concentration caps on 7-OH. Additionally, more than a dozen states have no clear legislation, leaving kratom in a legal gray area.
Since around 2010, products with synthetically concentrated extracts like 7-OH have become widely available at gas stations and tobacco shops. Oliver Grundmann, a clinical professor at the University of Florida, supports the scheduling of these products. He notes that Schedule I suggests no accepted medical use, requiring FDA approval processes to determine any medical benefits. Grundmann emphasizes that many manufacturers selling these products have not pursued such approval.
This article is part of The Hill’s Healthcare newsletter, authored by Nathaniel Weixel and Joseph Choi, focusing on healthcare impacts by Washington’s policies.
Essential Reads
Highlighting policy impacts on the healthcare sector: Pennsylvania has confirmed a sixth measles-related death, reflecting the nation’s highest measles case count. A 39-year-old woman in the state, with underlying conditions, died from a recent measles diagnosis.
Research on GLP-1 drugs shows potential immune and metabolic changes in adults with moderate-to-severe psoriasis and obesity. An Eli Lilly study reported enhanced effects when both Taltz and Zepbound were administered compared to Taltz alone.
A study by the University of Liverpool followed nearly 500 overweight or obese British adults over two years. Results showed no significant weight loss difference between those drinking water and those consuming diet soft drinks.
In Other News
An update from The Hill: The Ebola outbreak in Congo has reached 5,000 cases, according to Congo’s Ministry of Health data. Efforts to contain the spread, especially in remote regions, are currently outpaced by the outbreak’s rapid growth.
Around the Nation
Local and state healthcare stories: In Virginia, a proposed amendment on reproductive health brings potential abortion law changes. Legal experts weigh in on possible outcomes. Meanwhile, Iowa’s Senate candidates focus on healthcare issues in competitive races. Missouri hospitals struggle with workforce challenges as turnover rates increase.
What We’re Reading
Additional health news from other outlets: A survey indicates Americans trust science more compared to other countries. A study reports lower pregnancy risks for HPV-vaccinated women. Concerns grow as U.S. doctors age, potentially affecting patient safety.
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