Charleston, South Carolina, September 12, 2025
News Summary
Charleston, South Carolina, is witnessing an alarming increase in kratom product sales, prompting health officials and law enforcement to raise concerns about the substance’s potential risks. Kratom, often marketed as a legal alternative to opioids, is becoming easily available in local vape and smoke shops. Reports reveal its misuse among youths and a significant rise in kratom-related incidents. With neighboring states enacting bans and discussions about stricter regulations underway, public health advocates emphasize the need for better education and safety measures surrounding kratom’s use.
Charleston, South Carolina is experiencing a surge in the popularity of kratom products, raising serious concerns among local health officials and law enforcement about the potential risks associated with this substance. Kratom, a plant known for its psychoactive properties and often marketed as a legal alternative to opioids, has found its way into numerous vape shops and smoke shops across the city.
The plant contains potent compounds, particularly 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine), which can be synthesized or concentrated to deliver effects similar to those of opioids. Local smoke shop owners, including Kyle Domazalski, acknowledge the potential for abuse and thus refrain from selling concentrated 7-OH products, highlighting a cautious approach within the industry amidst growing concerns.
Awareness of kratom remains limited among local law enforcement, underscored by reports indicating that many officers lack substantial knowledge about the substance. This gap in information is echoed by mental health professionals who warn of the health ramifications associated with kratom. Their assessments conclude that kratom’s effects can resemble the high associated with opiates, raising alarm about its accessibility and popularity.
Disturbingly, anecdotal evidence from local families suggests that the shift from vaping to consuming kratom cocktails is occurring among youths, leading to significant financial expenditures on the substance. Reports indicate monthly spending can reach hundreds of dollars as individuals seek out kratom drinks, mixing them to enhance potency.
The public health landscape surrounding kratom has been further complicated by statistical data from the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office, which reported two overdose cases and one vehicle-related incident involving 7-OH. Similarly alarming figures from the Charleston County Coroner’s Office indicate 28 kratom-related incidents this year, with 19 resulting in deaths attributed to “mixed-drug toxicity.”
South Carolina’s status as a hub for kratom availability has earned it the moniker of the “gas-station heroin capital,” owing to the substance’s widespread sale in convenience stores and gas stations. Neighboring states have implemented bans on 7-OH products, yet South Carolina remains an exception, with regulations limiting sales to those aged 21 and older. Public health advocates argue that this age restriction is insufficient to curtail potential addiction risks and health consequences from kratom usage.
Health officials, including U.S. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, emphasize the urgency for stricter regulations and public education regarding 7-OH. The compound is recognized as a more potent opioid than morphine, prompting scrutiny from health experts who advocate for comprehensive regulation to tackle the surging popularity of kratom in the market. Consumers in the U.S. spend roughly $1.5 billion annually on kratom, with most purchases being concentrated forms of the product.
In response to the growing concern, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is evaluating whether to classify 7-OH as a Schedule I drug, similar to heroin or LSD. Additionally, South Carolina lawmakers, including Senator Russell Ott, are working to introduce regulations aimed at overseeing sales and labeling practices associated with kratom products. Although an earlier attempt to ban kratom statewide was unsuccessful, existing legislation aims to address the industry’s most troubling practices while deliberations continue on bans on 7-OH products.
As the situation evolves, public health experts stress the importance of stricter regulatory frameworks to prevent potential health risks tied to kratom and its derivatives. Some users, while reporting beneficial effects for pain relief, also reveal concerns about withdrawal and addiction challenges. Legal action has emerged as a response to misleading marketing practices, with various law firms seeking accountability from manufacturers and retailers involved in the trade of kratom.
As public discourse around kratom continues, officials are left to grapple with the complexities it introduces, not only in terms of public health but also in managing its implications on community well-being.
FAQ
- What is kratom? Kratom is a plant that contains psychoactive compounds, often used for its pain-relieving properties. It is commonly sold in various forms, including concentrated extracts.
- What are the risks associated with kratom? Kratom can produce effects similar to opioids, leading to concerns about potential addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Users may experience adverse effects, including overdose.
- Is kratom legal in South Carolina? Yes, kratom is legal in South Carolina; however, there are regulations such as an age limit of 21 for sales.
- What is 7-OH? 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine) is a potent compound found in kratom that can have strong opioid effects. Its legality and safety are currently under scrutiny.
- What actions are being taken to regulate kratom? Some lawmakers, including those in South Carolina, are proposing regulations to improve safety and labeling practices related to kratom products. The DEA is also considering classifying 7-OH as a Schedule I drug.
Key Features of Kratom Products
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Usage | Pain relief, recreational use |
| Main Compound | 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine) |
| Market Size | $1.5 billion in annual sales in the U.S. |
| Available Forms | Powders, extracts, cocktails |
| Legal Status | Legal in South Carolina; age restriction of 21 |
| Health Implications | Risk of addiction, overdose, withdrawal symptoms |
| Regulatory Actions | Consideration for Schedule I classification by DEA |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper: Explosion of Kratom Worries Lowcountry Experts & Leaders
- WCHS TV: National Kratom Lawsuit Initiative Launched
- Charleston City Paper: Kratom: Natural Pain Relief or Gas Station Heroin?
- ABC6: Protesters Rally Against Trump Administration Policies
- Newsweek: FDA Restriction on Kratom Amid Concerns
- Wikipedia: Kratom
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kratom
- Google Search: Kratom News
- Google Scholar: Kratom
- Google News: Kratom
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
