On October 1, the State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy (SOBP) voted to classify kratom as a Schedule I controlled substance alongside heroin, LSD, and other dangerous illegal drugs. The board concluded kratom has a high potential for abuse, has no accepted medical use, isn’t safe to use in medical treatment, and poses a public health risk. Public comment on this decision is being sought and will be accepted through close of business on Thursday, October 18.
Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are the main active constituents of the plant kratom. Kratom is a plant-based supplement that consumers say alleviates chronic pain and opioid addiction.
The rule can be accessed on the SOBP website. Comments on the proposed rule will be accepted until close of business on Thursday, October 18, by sending an email to contact@pharmacy.ohio.gov.