Albuquerque Enforces FDA Ban on Kratom Sales Amid Health Concerns

The City of Albuquerque supports the FDA's decision to ban the sale of kratom products due to safety concerns and lack of regulation, leading to local enforcement actions including fines and product embargoes. Kratom, a plant-based substance with both opioid and stimulant effects, has been marketed in various forms such as drinks, powders, and tablets, often without dosage guidelines or age restrictions, which raises particular concern for youth accessibility. The FDA is specifically targeting 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a chemical in kratom products that can be highly potent and addictive, proposing its classification as a controlled substance to prevent a potential new opioid crisis. While some users report using kratom or 7-OH products to manage pain or as alternatives to opioids, health officials warn these concentrated forms pose serious health risks including liver toxicity, seizures, and addiction. Advocates argue that banning 7-OH could drive users to even more dangerous unregulated substances, highlighting the need for further research to understand its benefits and risks. The DEA will review the FDA's recommendation to schedule 7-OH, which would result in a nationwide ban on its sale.