‘Gas station heroin’ a growing problem

By Joe Johnson

David was arrested last month after he stole hundreds of dollars worth of an herbal supplement on two different occasions from an tlanta Highway convenience store.

Police charged the 55-year-old Athens man with theft by shoplifting for one of the incidents and robbery for the other because he physically pushed past the clerk to get to the supplement that was kept behind the counter.

David was desperate to obtain the supplement that contains 7-hydroxymitragynine and has come to be known as gas station heroin because it’s a highly potent opioid-like compound found in the kratom plant that’s marketed for the alleviation of pain, anxiety, and withdrawal symptoms.

It’s been recognized by health experts as a growing problem because it’s highly addictive, interacting with opioid brain receptors to produce effects similar to such pain medication as oxycodone and Percocet.

It is sold in colorful packaging that emphasizes its plant-based nature and has a candy-like appearance with fruity flavors.

Unlike street drugs or illegally purchased prescription meds, anyone can buy it at the gas station or corner store.