Ohio Governor Issues Emergency Order to Ban Synthetic Kratom, Directs Pharmacy Board to Classify 7-OH as Controlled Substance

Why it matters

Ohio's December 2025 emergency ban on 7-OH products signals accelerating state-level regulatory action ahead of federal DEA classification. At least 12 states have now enacted full 7-OH bans, fragmenting the national regulatory landscape.

The big picture

States are moving faster than federal regulators to restrict synthetic kratom products after FDA recommended DEA scheduling in July 2025. The DEA has not yet issued a final ruling. Meanwhile, at least 12 states have full bans, and others have implemented potency restrictions, creating a patchwork of regulations that retail businesses must navigate.

Key findings

• 12 states with full 7-OH bans: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, Wisconsin; additional 5 states (Arizona, Colorado, South Carolina, Texas, West Virginia) with high-potency restrictions; Ohio Gov. DeWine's emergency order directs Pharmacy Board to hold hearings within 6 months on Schedule I classification; federal FDA recommendation made July 2025, DEA decision still pending

What they say

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine: "We've had a number of people in Ohio who have actually overdosed and died" from 7-OH. Jason Ingram (kratom retailer): "Everything in my store I have taken. I've tried it myself" and criticized the ban as "government overreach."

Bottom line

**At least 12 states have now banned 7-OH, with Ohio's emergency order joining a growing regulatory push outpacing federal decision-making.**