October 12, 2026 3:30 a.m. 

The League of Women Voters of Umpqua Valley is holding a public forum about retail drugs legally sold in Douglas County on Thursday, October 15th at 6:00 p.m. at the Roseburg Public Library in the Deer Creek room.

An LWVUV release said Douglas Public Health Network Overdose Prevention Coordinator, Kim Gandy will reveal little-known facts about “retail drugs”. Gandy is working on educating the community on some of the unregulated products that are currently being sold legally in our stores. Gandy said, “Just because it’s legal does not mean it’s safe to consume.”

Retail drugs are products sold in places such as convenience stores, smoke and vape shops, supplement stores, and online. They may be marketed as natural, legal, or wellness products, but some can have powerful effects on the brain and body. Examples include kratom, 7-OH, tianeptine, phenibut, nitrous oxide, and certain over-the-counter medications when misused.

Some can be addictive, leading to cravings, tolerance, dependence, or withdrawal. Regulation also varies by product and location. Some are not FDA-approved, and state and federal oversight can be limited or changing.

The release said because these products may not undergo the same testing, quality controls, or oversight as approved medications, their strength and ingredients can vary. Being available for purchase does not necessarily mean a product is safe, effective, or well regulated.

This event is sponsored by the Douglas Public Health Network