Ohio Board of Pharmacy Bans Synthetic Kratom as Illegal Drug

The Ohio Board of Pharmacy has officially designated synthetic kratom as a Schedule I illegal drug, following a vote on October 6, 2023. This emergency rule aims to address growing concerns regarding the safety and potential health risks associated with synthetic variations of the herbal supplement.

Synthetic kratom, a derivative of the kratom plant native to Southeast Asia, has garnered attention for its psychoactive properties, which some claim mimic the effects of opioids. However, the board’s decision highlights significant apprehensions about its safety profile. The board’s action comes in response to increased reports of adverse health effects linked to the substance, including severe addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

In a statement released after the vote, the Ohio Board of Pharmacy emphasized the need to protect public health. “The decision to classify synthetic kratom as a Schedule I substance was made to prevent further health issues in our communities,” said a spokesperson for the board. This classification places synthetic kratom in the same category as other controlled substances, such as heroin and LSD, thereby prohibiting its manufacture, distribution, and possession.

The emergency rule will remain in effect for 120 days, during which the board will gather further data and evaluate the need for a permanent regulation. Stakeholders in the health sector have largely supported this move, citing a lack of reliable research on synthetic kratom’s safety and efficacy. Many medical professionals have raised alarms about its unregulated nature and the potential for misuse.

The board’s decision also comes amid a broader national conversation about the regulation of substances that have not undergone rigorous scientific testing. States across the United States are grappling with similar issues, as the popularity of synthetic drugs continues to rise. This regulatory action in Ohio may prompt other states to reconsider their stance on synthetic kratom, as public health advocates call for more comprehensive policies.

Despite the ban, some advocates argue that kratom can be a valuable tool for pain management and should be studied more thoroughly. They claim that the natural form of kratom, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, has therapeutic benefits that could aid individuals seeking alternatives to traditional pain medications.

As the situation evolves, the Ohio Board of Pharmacy’s actions may serve as a barometer for future regulatory measures across the country. The board plans to hold public hearings to discuss the implications of the ban and the potential pathways for further research.

In conclusion, the Ohio Board of Pharmacy has taken a significant step in regulating synthetic kratom, reflecting a growing concern for public health and safety. With the emergency rule now in place, the focus will shift to ongoing research and dialogue surrounding the substance and its effects on communities in Ohio and beyond.