Indiana toddler left in coma after boyfriend allegedly exposes child to unregulated 7-OH

Key points

• A 2-year-old boy in Auburn, Indiana, suffered catastrophic brain injury after being exposed to 7-OH, a potent opioid derived from kratom.
• Police charged 20-year-old Kole Schwarz, the child's mother's live-in boyfriend, with neglect resulting in catastrophic injury.
• The toddler was hospitalized in September and later transferred to Riley Hospital in Indianapolis, where tests confirmed the presence of kratom-related drugs.
• The FDA has warned about the proliferation of unregulated 7-OH products sold over the counter, which are illegal in Indiana but available in neighboring Michigan.

Background

This incident follows earlier reports from late October 2026 detailing the same case, highlighting the ongoing public health concern regarding 7-OH. The FDA has previously issued warnings about the proliferation of concentrated 7-OH products sold over the counter and online, noting that while illegal in Indiana, these substances remain accessible in neighboring states like Michigan. This case underscores the risks associated with unregulated kratom derivatives, which have been linked to rising hospitalizations and severe health issues among children and teens.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers of unregulated 7-OH products, which are sold over the counter and online despite being illegal in Indiana. The FDA has warned about the proliferation of these substances, which can cause severe health issues, including seizures, liver toxicity, and substance use disorder. The incident underscores the need for stricter regulations and public education to protect children from exposure to potent opioids like 7-OH.

What to watch

Kole Schwarz faces charges for neglect resulting in catastrophic injury. The child's grandmother, Josie Casebere, is advocating for greater awareness and regulation of 7-OH products. The FDA is calling for immediate policies to educate consumers and limit access to 7-OH-containing products. The case may lead to increased scrutiny of kratom-related products in Indiana and neighboring states.