DEA Targets Kratom's Potent Additive: Temporary Schedule I Plan for 7-OH

The DEA plans to temporarily place 7-OH, an opioid-like component of kratom, in Schedule I for two years (potentially extending to a third) for products above a certain threshold. Supporters say the move protects public health by curbing dependence and abuse, while critics question the science and warn it could hurt consumers who rely on kratom; the policy is framed as a win for the mainstream kratom industry amid political and lobbying dynamics.