Ohio’s emergency ban on kratom-related products, enacted at the request of Gov. Mike DeWine, is drawing sharp concern from public health advocates who fear it will backfire. Kratom derivatives such as 7-hydroxymitragynine are often used for pain relief and, some report, to help manage opioid addiction, yet they now face prohibition instead of oversight. Opponents argue that history shows drug bans drive use into unregulated black markets, increasing contamination risks and exposing users to more dangerous substances like fentanyl. With Ohio already losing 3,664 residents to opioid overdoses in 2023, they say regulating all kratom products, setting safety standards, and enforcing age limits would better protect communities. The full opinion appears in the Dayton Daily News.
Critics Warn Kratom Ban Could Deepen Ohio’s Drug Crisis
