Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has officially banned the sale of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a concentrated compound found in some kratom products, by classifying it as a Schedule I controlled substance. The decision makes Florida the first state in the nation to outlaw this kratom byproduct.
Why the Ban Matters
7-OH has been described by researchers as “legal morphine” due to its opioid-like effects. The ban comes shortly after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended in July that the compound be restricted nationwide.
Federal regulators, however, made an important distinction: their proposed controls do not target kratom leaves or ground kratom powder — only concentrated derivatives like 7-OH. Florida’s new rule mirrors that approach.
What the Law Targets
The ban specifically focuses on 7-OH products, which are often sold as:
- Tablets
- Gummies
- Drink mixes
- Liquid shots
These items can be found online, as well as in some smoke shops and gas stations.
The Bigger Picture on Kratom
“Kratom” can refer to the tropical plant itself, its powdered leaves, or concentrated extracts. While many products are marketed as mood boosters, pain relievers, or aids for opioid withdrawal symptoms, medical experts — including the Mayo Clinic — caution that not all kratom-based products are natural or safe.
Bottom Line
Florida’s move sets a precedent that could influence other states as regulators nationwide consider whether to follow the FDA’s recommendation. For now, 7-OH remains legal in most of the U.S., but its future availability is uncertain as the debate over kratom’s safety and regulation continues.
If you’d like, I can also make a “What This Means for Consumers” section so readers know exactly how this affects kratom buyers in Florida. That would make the article even more reader-friendly and shareable.
