Florida has declared 7-OH, a concentrated kratom byproduct, illegal due to its high potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use. An emergency rule classifies 7-OH as a Schedule 1 drug, similar to meth and fentanyl, effective immediately.

The 7-OH alkaloid is one of the plant's most potent active compounds. According to information distributed by the attorney general, 7-OH levels are low in whole kratom leaves, while isolated or concentrated forms of the compound are much stronger and often are sold as natural or health supplements.

Attorney General James Uthmeier said Wednesday that his office is reclassifying concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine products as a Schedule 1 drug in an effort toremove the product from stores in Florida.