Public Forum in Roseburg to Examine Retail Drugs and Health Risks
A free forum Oct. 15 at the Roseburg Public Library will explore retail drugs, potential health risks, and product oversight. Hosted by the League of Women Voters of Umpqua Valley, the event runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
ROSEBURG, Ore. - A free public forum at the Roseburg Public Library on Thursday, Oct. 15, will examine products sold in stores and online that may pose health risks despite being available for purchase.
The League of Women Voters of Umpqua Valley will host the event, sponsored by the Douglas Public Health Network, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the library’s Deer Creek Room.
Kim Gandy, overdose prevention coordinator for the Douglas Public Health Network, will discuss what organizers describe as “retail drugs” and efforts to educate residents about unregulated products.
“Just because it’s legal, does NOT mean it’s safe to consume,” Gandy said in the announcement.
Organizers use the term retail drugs to describe products available at convenience stores, smoke and vape shops, supplement stores, and online. Some are marketed as natural or wellness products but can have powerful effects on the brain and body, according to the release.
Examples listed in the announcement include kratom, 7-OH, tianeptine, phenibut, nitrous oxide, and certain over-the-counter medications when misused.
The presentation will address concerns about addiction, dependence, and withdrawal, along with differences in product regulation and oversight. According to organizers, some products may lack the testing and quality controls required for approved medications, allowing their strength and ingredients to vary.
The forum is open to the public, and admission is free.
The League of Women Voters of Umpqua Valley is a nonpartisan organization that promotes civic participation and public policy education. More information about the organization is available at lwvuv.org.
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