Editor’s note: This is the first of a two-part series examining kratom and products containing its increasingly potent derivative, 7-OH, and the growing concerns surrounding their availability, regulation and health effects. Part One focuses on how law enforcement and regulatory officials are identifying and responding to emerging risks tied to 7-OH, while Part Two will explore the medical impacts seen by health care providers, patient experiences and legislative efforts underway in Missouri.

Products containing kratom and its increasingly discussed derivative 7-OH are drawing growing attention from public health officials, medical professionals and lawmakers as questions about regulation, health effects and enforcement continue to evolve.

Kratom is a plant derived from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, a tree native to Southeast Asia, and has traditionally been used for stimulant or painrelieving effects depending on dose. In recent years, newer products containing7- hydroxymitragynin…