Orange County Bans Sale Of Synthetic Kratom Products Due To Health Concerns

Orange County has implemented a ban on the sale of synthetic kratom products in unincorporated areas, citing public health concerns. The law, approved by county supervisors, prohibits the sale of kratom products containing more than 2% of the chemical 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and restricts sales to individuals aged 21 and older. This action follows growing concerns about the potential for abuse and harm associated with synthetic kratom products.

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The Ban on Synthetic Kratom Products

The Orange County Board of Supervisors approved a law on Tuesday banning the sale of synthetic kratom products in unincorporated areas of the county. The legislation specifically targets products containing high concentrations of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a chemical derived from kratom that is concentrated and put into synthetic products. Under the new law, businesses cannot sell any kratom products that contain more than 2% of 7-OH, and all sales to individuals under 21 are prohibited.

Violations of this ban are classified as misdemeanors, punishable with fines of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in county jail. The county has established a reporting line for violations, with residents encouraged to call 714-834-3550 to report businesses selling the prohibited products.

Health Concerns and Risks

The decision to implement the ban was driven by significant health concerns associated with kratom use, particularly synthetic versions. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), deaths have been associated with kratom use in rare but serious cases. Users may experience a range of adverse effects, including anorexia, insomnia, seizures, and hallucinations.

Medical professionals have treated patients ranging from their early 20s to their 60s for kratom-related issues. Some patients had prior opioid addictions and turned to kratom after losing access to prescriptions, while others attempted to use it as a pain reliever. The FDA has identified regulatory gaps that have allowed the widespread availability of synthetic kratom products, labeling it a "dangerous substance."

Regulatory Context and Future Actions

Orange County is not alone in addressing concerns about synthetic kratom products. In March, Newport Beach banned the sale of these products, and Huntington Beach scheduled a vote on September 2 to consider enacting its own ban. First District Supervisor Janet Nguyen, who introduced the law, emphasized the need to target "highly concentrated synthetically made 7-OH products."

Fifth District Supervisor Katrina Foley noted that synthetic kratom products can be easily purchased at gas stations, despite their potential for harm. She highlighted how these products are often deceptively marketed with words like "natural" on the packaging, leading consumers to underestimate their risks. Foley stated that kratom is "a fast-spreading drug because individuals, they start to become very addicted to it. They don't even know that it's a drug."

The Drug Enforcement Administration is currently reviewing the FDA's recommendation regarding kratom and will decide on the severity of its classification. District Attorney Todd Spitzer has described kratom as "more potent than morphine" and noted that it is "aggressively marketed to individuals in sobriety as a cure-all for chronic pain and sold in gas stations and smoke shops."

Addiction and Support Resources

For individuals struggling with kratom addiction, Orange County has established resources for help. Foley directed those who might be addicted to contact the 24-hour OC Links hotline at 855-625-4657. While there are no known deaths caused by kratom specifically in Orange County, other jurisdictions have reported deaths from kratom overdoses.

Community Response and Public Education

The ban has been welcomed by community leaders as an important step in addressing the public health risks associated with synthetic kratom. Foley expressed satisfaction with the swift action, stating, "I think we're getting on it quickly, and I'm very happy that people are taking it seriously."

Efforts are also being made to educate the public about the risks associated with kratom products, particularly the deceptive marketing practices that may lead consumers to underestimate potential harms. Public health officials emphasize the importance of understanding that products labeled as "natural" can still pose significant health risks.

Legal and Regulatory Implications

The implementation of this ban raises questions about the broader regulatory landscape surrounding kratom and similar substances. As federal agencies like the FDA and DEA continue to evaluate the classification of kratom, local jurisdictions like Orange County are taking proactive measures to protect public health.

The legal framework established by the Orange County ban could potentially serve as a model for other municipalities considering similar regulations. By establishing clear limits on 7-OH concentration and age restrictions, the county has created a regulatory approach that balances consumer protection with access to potentially beneficial substances in their natural form.

Economic Considerations

The ban on synthetic kratom products may have economic implications for businesses in the affected areas. Gas stations, smoke shops, and other retailers that previously sold these products will need to adapt their inventory and business practices. The county has established a reporting mechanism to ensure compliance with the new regulations, which may result in additional administrative burdens for enforcement agencies.

Future Research and Monitoring

As the ban takes effect, public health officials will likely monitor its impact on kratom use patterns and associated health outcomes. This data could inform future regulatory decisions and potentially guide the development of more targeted interventions. The FDA's ongoing review of kratom classification will also be an important factor in shaping the regulatory landscape at both state and local levels.

Conclusion

The Orange County ban on synthetic kratom products represents a significant regulatory response to growing public health concerns. By targeting high-concentration 7-OH products and restricting sales to adults, the county aims to reduce potential harms while allowing for the continued availability of kratom in its natural form. As other municipalities consider similar actions and federal agencies evaluate kratom's classification, the regulatory landscape surrounding this substance continues to evolve. Public education and addiction support resources remain important components of the comprehensive approach to addressing kratom-related health concerns.

Sources

1. OC Register - OC bans sale of synthetic kratom products in unincorporated areas