The federal government has taken a significant step toward regulating synthetic kratom extracts, with the Department of Health and Human Services endorsing the DEA’s proposal to classify these substances as controlled. Known informally as "gas station opioids," these compounds have raised concerns over their potential for misuse and addiction. The DEA previously announced plans to temporarily schedule a key psychoactive compound derived from kratom, signaling a broader crackdown on their availability. This move could reshape access to the substances, which have gained popularity despite growing health warnings.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Friday added its recommendations to the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) move to schedule synthetic kratom extracts, putting its support behind the push to regulate the substances colloquially called "gas station opioid." In July, the DEA announced plans to temporarily schedule a psychoactive compound derived from kratom...
