6th Fatal Overdose Linked To 'Herbal Medicine' Sold At Gas Stations In Los Angeles County

LOS ANGELES, CA — Three more people have died from overdosing on synthetic compound kratom, known by its nickname "gas station heroin," the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health warned Friday.

The recent overdoses of residents between the ages of 18 to 40 years old brought the total of local deaths now tied to the substance to six, according to the county Medical Examiner.

"Alcohol was present with 7-OH in many of the fatal overdose cases, in addition to other medications and, at times, illicit substances," the county announced. "However, the decedents were otherwise generally healthy.

"Retailers should immediately stop selling any 7-OH products, as these are not lawfully marketed in the U.S. as a drug product, dietary supplement, or food additive. "

Kratom, an herbal medicine, comes from evergreen tree leaves in Southeast Asia and has opioid and stimulant effects. Authorities warn the drug can be addictive and lead to psychosis in high doses.

Kratom is not lawfully marketed in the United States as a drug product, dietary supplement or food additive.

"Kratom and 7-OH products are marketed as natural remedies and sold illegally in gas stations, smoke shops, online and other retailers," Dr. Gary Tsai, director of the county health department's Substance Abuse Prevention and Control Bureau, said in a statement. "It's critical that the community understand that these products are dangerous and can result in fatal overdoses. The safest thing to do is avoid using 7-OH and kratom-related products altogether."

The suspected illegal sale of 7-OH products can be reported to the county Environmental Health department at 888-700-9995.

City News Service, Inc. contributed to this report.