Ohio Governor Seeks Statewide Ban on Natural, Synthetic Kratom

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is urging the state's Board of Pharmacy to classify all natural and synthetic kratom compounds as Schedule I illegal drugs, citing a significant public health risk evidenced by over 200 unintentional overdose deaths linked to kratom in Ohio between 2019 and 2024. Kratom, marketed as a natural stimulant and pain reliever, mimics opioid effects but lacks FDA approval and regulatory oversight, with synthetic derivatives like 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) associated with addiction, seizures, and deaths. DeWine's proposal would require businesses to remove all kratom products from shelves and online sales, making Ohio the first state to implement such a comprehensive ban. While some users claim kratom helps manage chronic pain and opioid withdrawal, health officials warn of serious side effects and addictive potential, with the FDA labeling synthetic 7-OH as highly addictive and calling it "gas station heroin." This initiative follows previous attempts to ban kratom in Ohio, which were reversed after public outcry, but recent overdose data and tragic cases like that of Johnny Young, who died from kratom-related causes, have intensified calls for prohibition. The Ohio Board of Pharmacy has yet to respond to the governor's request, but the move reflects growing national concerns over kratom safety and regulation.