Florida Attorney General Bans More 7-OH Products to Protect Pensacola Residents

Last updated: June 23, 2026

NewsWK — Pensacola residents will soon see a crackdown on the sale of concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and similar compounds as Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced a new emergency rule aimed at reducing access to these potentially dangerous substances. This move comes as part of a broader effort to protect the community from the risks associated with these drugs, which have been linked to overdoses and other serious health issues.

During a press conference at Tampa General Hospital, Uthmeier, who is facing voters for the first time in November, highlighted the dangers of these products, which are often sold in convenience stores and gas stations throughout Florida—including Pensacola. He was joined by other officials, including the Florida Surgeon General and local healthcare representatives, emphasizing the widespread concern over the increasing misuse of these substances.

According to the Attorney General’s office, the new rule classifies several 7-OH-related compounds as Schedule 1 drugs, which are defined as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. This classification includes substances like mitragynine pseudoindoxyl and 9-hydroxycorynantheidine, among others.

Healthcare professionals have reported a troubling rise in overdoses linked to these drugs. Melissa Golombek, president of Tampa General Hospital, stated, “With access to 7-OH at every convenience store, we are having kids and teens purchase this without understanding the true addiction and the highly lethal ability that this drug has.” In the first four months of 2026 alone, there were 95 calls related to these substances, affecting individuals from infants to the elderly.

Uthmeier warned that violating the new emergency rule could result in felony charges, with offenders facing severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. He stated, “If you violate our rule, we are going to make you pay for it. You could be looking at up to a 30-year prison sentence.” This reflects the administration’s commitment to combat the misuse of these drugs and protect the health and safety of Floridians.

For Pensacola residents, these changes mean heightened scrutiny on local retailers and increased efforts to ensure that harmful substances are kept out of reach, particularly from younger individuals. The community can expect ongoing inspections and enforcement actions to uphold these new regulations.