The ‘gas station heroine’ puts California on alert

Kratom is a plant from Southeast Asia that is used in the United States as a natural supplement, pain reliever, or to help manage withdrawal symptoms. Although it is not illegal at the federal level, its unregulated sale allows it to be found in convenience stores and gas stations. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned about the risks of abuse, dependence, and adverse effects, especially when consumed in concentrated forms or synthetic derivatives, such as 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine), which have effects similar to opioids.

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Photo: U.S. FDA