Bresnahan Applauds DEA Classification of Chemically Manipulated 7-OH

WASHINGTON, DC: Today, U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) released the following statement in response to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) intent to temporarily classify 7-hydroxymitagynine (7-OH), a chemically manipulated derivative of kratom with opioid-like effects, into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).

"7-OH, which is commonly referred to as gas station heroin, is an incredibly dangerous substance that should not be allowed to proliferate on our streets," said Rep. Bresnahan. "I am glad the DEA heard our concerns and calls to protect Northeastern Pennsylvania and the country from the rapid spread of these high-risk products. This temporary classification is a significant step forward in keeping our communities safe."

This classification comes three months after Rep. Bresnahan sent a letter to the DEA urging for an emergency scheduling of 7-OH.

"This action is urgently needed to protect consumers from a rapidly expanding marketplace of dangerous synthetic products that are being deceptively sold as natural, despite having entirely different pharmacological effects and risks," wrote Rep. Bresnahan.

7-OH is derived from kratom leaves but, when chemically manipulated, can reach potency levels up to 50 times stronger than mitragynine, the plants primary active compound, and 13 times more potent than morphine.

The DEA's announcement of the intent to temporarily schedule 7-OH can be read here.

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