The Virginia Board of Pharmacy has decided not to take action on a request to classify kratom as a Schedule I drug. The decision, announced on Wednesday, comes after a Hampton Roads pharmacist petitioned the board to restrict the herbal supplement.In its brief statement, the board cited insufficient evidence to determine that kratom has no medicinal value. The decision leaves kratom available for purchase by individuals 21 and older in Virginia.The proposal had sparked thousands of public comments, with many kratom advocates arguing for its pain-relieving properties and potential in addiction recovery. However, some pharmacists raised concerns about abuse potential and safety.While federal agencies like the FDA oppose kratom, other groups, including the National Institute for Drug Abuse, support further research into its potential medicinal uses. The board may revisit the issue in future meetings.
The latest news on the legalization of controversial botanicals.
