Oakland County Officials Warn Of Dangerous Unregulated Stimulant Sold In Local Stores

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — Oakland County officials warned residents that some products sold at gas stations and convenience stores have an unregulated stimulant.

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said that some energy drinks and gummies contain "synthetic kratom," which has highly concentrated stimulants that can pose serious risks, especially to children.

"Kratom products are often sold at stores where kids might go to buy a candy bar or snack," McDonald said. "Right now, this stuff is legal and parents are the only line of defense. We need lawmakers in Lansing to give law enforcement and local prosecutors the tools to help protect kids."

Her warning comes just after the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services posted a health bulletin on the topic.

"Kratom is a plant sold in many Michigan gas stations, corner stores, smoke/vape shops, and online," state officials wrote in the bulletin. "It’s often marketed as “natural,” “herbal,” or “safe,” but kratom products are not regulated, so you can’t be sure what’s actually in them."

Traditional kratom comes from a tree in Southeast Asia and produces mild stimulant effects.

Officials warned modern retail products are often significantly more potent and often contain 7-OH, which is a chemical compound known for its opioid-like effects. It can have dangerous effects if mixed with alcohol, opioids (prescription or unregulated, benzodiazepines (such as xanax and ativan), sleep medications or other sedatives.

Other common effects can include:

• Feeling energized or more alert
• Feeling sleepy, out of it, or slowed down
• Nausea or stomach upset
• Dizziness or fast heart rate
• Anxiety, restlessness or confusion

Officials ask anyone struggling with substance use, including kratom, to call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential support and treatment referrals.