For Immediate Release:

Date: 1/16/26

Rising Public Health Concerns Over Kratom Use in New Jersey

(Toms River, NJ) – The Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) is raising awareness about an increase in overdoses that have been linked to 7-OH, or kratom, that is sold in convenience stores throughout the State. The growing availability of the plant-derived substance is marketed as a “natural” supplement but is associated with serious health risks, including addictive effects and other serious medical complications.

Ocean County Commissioner Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione and liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health said, “We are deeply concerned about the unchecked spread of kratom products in our communities. What is often marketed as a ‘natural’ or ‘safe’ supplement can carry real health risks, especially for young people without full awareness of its consequences.”

Kratom products are currently unregulated in New Jersey and widely accessible not only over the counter in convenience stores but also online, in smoke shops, and other retail outlets - often with no age verification or oversight.

Daniel Regenye, OCHD Public Health Coordinator, added, “Ocean County residents need to know that health authorities do not approve 7-OH for any medical use and that it poses significant safety concerns. Active compounds in kratom act on opioid receptors, which can lead to dependence, abuse, and withdrawal symptoms.”

Side effects reported for kratom use include nervousness, seizures, liver problems, nausea, vomiting, and hallucinations. It may also be contaminated with harmful substances, including heavy metals and bacteria, due to a lack of regulatory standards.

While possession and sale of kratom remain legal in New Jersey at the state and federal levels, legislators have recently introduced bills that could criminalize its manufacture, distribution, and possession to curb unregulated availability and protect public health.

Public health experts warn that the perception of safety due to kratom’s plant origin is misleading and that many users do not realize the potential for addiction or interactions with other medications.

OCHD County Alcoholism Coordinator, Kimberly Reilly, emphasized, “We are seeing trends in misuse that mirror other substances of abuse, with people self-medicating with kratom and experiencing withdrawals, abuse, dependence, and a variety of other unexpected health issues. Community education and caution are crucial.”

The Ocean County Health Department urges residents to:

• Avoid using kratom products, especially without medical guidance.

• Be cautious about “natural” or “herbal” products with unverified safety.

• Report adverse effects to local health departments or poison control.

• If you suspect an overdose, even if it’s labeled as kratom, administer Naloxone immediately. Research has shown that Naloxone can reverse the effects of respiratory depression caused by kratom.

For more information about the Ocean County Health Department, visit our website at oceancountyhealth.gov.