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First 'Gas Station Heroin' Death Reported In San Francisco
Patch • • health
Key Points:
- A victim died after consuming the kratom-derived opioid Dihydro-7-hydroxymirtragynine (MGM-15), confirmed by forensic toxicology testing.
- MGM-15 is a semi-synthetic opioid not approved for medical use, illegal to sell, and can be fatal in high doses.
- The product remains accessible in smoke shops and gas stations, often marketed under alternative names like "uncaria tomentosa" or "cat’s claw."
- Kratom, derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, is legal federally but flagged by the FDA for significant health risks including overdose, liver damage, and respiratory issues.
- San Mateo County and other regions have banned or restricted kratom sales due to its dangers, with officials highlighting its harmful impact on public health.
