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Natick Board of Health considers regulation of synthetic kratom products
Summary
At its May 11 meeting the Board of Health heard that synthetic kratom products—sold in many retail outlets—may contain highly concentrated 7‑OH isolates with opioid-like properties; Director Michael K. Boudreau proposed drafting Board of Health regulations on kratom sales.
The Town of Natick Board of Health discussed kratom and a possible local regulatory response at its May 11 meeting.
Michael K. Boudreau, the town’s Director of Public Health, told the board that "Kratom is becoming more common in the state, and many communities are looking at it." He explained that natural kratom is not classified as an opioid and is not FDA-approved for medical use, while some synthetic kratom products "contain high potency isolates, and/or extremely concentrated amounts of the psychoactive chemical called 7‑OH which have opioid‑like properties." He also noted that kratom and 7‑OH are not controlled under the Controlled Substances Act and that the DEA has listed kratom as a Drug and Chemical Concern.
After summarizing the state of federal oversight, Boudreau proposed that the board direct staff to draft local Board of Health regulations governing the sale of kratom products in Natick. The board did not adopt any regulation at the meeting; the item was presented for policy discussion and next steps.
Next steps: Health Department staff were asked to draft a proposed regulation for future board consideration.
