The Unregulated High

Unregulated or mislabeled drug products—often sold as “herbal” supplements or mood boosters—found in gas stations and vape shops. Examples include kratom, tianeptine, phenibut, nitrous oxide, and delta-8 THC.

They exploit loopholes in supplement laws, avoid FDA approval, and are marketed as “natural” despite drug-like effects. Enforcement varies by state and locality.

Kratom’s active compounds (like 7-hydroxymitragynine) act at opioid receptors, leading to dependence, withdrawal, and polydrug risks—especially with concentrated products.

Tianeptine is an unapproved drug with opioid-like effects sold in convenience packaging (e.g., “ZaZa”). It can cause addiction and overdose and is scheduled or banned in many states.

Learn the signs, check local stores, talk with kids, and send MAHA’s ready-to-use letters to local councils, boards of health, and state or federal lawmakers.

Not necessarily. Products vary widely in potency and purity; contaminants and high doses are common. Youth exposure and accidental ingestion are rising concerns.

Use our state law finder on MAHA’s homepage to see current status and pending bills, then follow the action steps for your locality.