The Food and Drug Administration is recommending restrictions on a synthetic opioid-like substance sold at gas stations and corner stores nationwide — but with a special carveout for the “natural” herbal supplement the substance is derived from.
The distinction could be a sign of how the FDA will regulate other dietary supplements moving forward. When asked if the agency was considering such a tactic for other products, commissioner Marty Makary said: “I think it’s a good idea.”
The carveout has another clear winner, too: The kratom companies and lobbyists whose products compete with 7-OH, and who have pushed the federal government for this result.