Kratom faces a legal reckoning in Missouri. A drug abuse specialist watches with concern

Kratom faces a legal reckoning in Missouri. A drug abuse specialist watches with concern

Author: St. Louis Public Radio April 16, 2026 Duration: 19:46
The state of Missouri is suing a Missouri-based manufacturer of the 7-OH variety of kratom. Derived from plants, kratom is drawing increased scrutiny and concern. The products are widely sold in gas stations in St. Louis and across the state. We talk with PreventEd Executive Director Jenny Armbruster about kratom, the difference between kratom and 7-OH, why people are becoming addicted, and what educators and advocates are hearing about the substance from users.

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