PONTIAC, Mich. (WWJ) — Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald is sounding the alarm over unregulated "synthetic kratom" products sold as dietary supplements in gas stations and convenience stores.
McDonald warned Tuesday that the products, which are often marketed as energy drinks or gummies, create a false sense of security but are highly concentrated stimulants that can be particularly dangerous for children.
“Consumers need to understand that they don’t really know what they’re getting when they buy kratom products,” McDonald said in a news release. “The truth is these unregulated and often highly concentrated stimulants can be dangerous, especially for children.”
The warning follows a March public health bulletin from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. While traditional kratom comes from a Southeast Asian tree and produces mild stimulant effects, modern retail products are often significantly more potent.
State health officials noted these items are enhanced with high concentrations of the chemical 7-OH, displacing natural kratom leaf products on store shelves and increasing the risk of overdose.
Although adults between the ages of 20 and 39 account for the most kratom-related exposures, state officials report there have been 69 exposures involving children in Michigan.
Because the products remain legal and are sold in stores alongside snacks and candy, McDonald said parents are currently the only line of defense. She is calling on state lawmakers in Lansing to equip law enforcement and local prosecutors with the necessary tools to protect children.
Anyone struggling with substance use, including kratom, can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential support and treatment referrals.
