Semi-synthetic kratom products linked to four deaths in Utah, state officials say

Key Points:

• Four deaths in Utah have been linked to potent semi-synthetic kratom compounds, mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI) and dihydro-7-hydroxymitragynine (MGM-15), both recently classified as Schedule 1 drugs by the DEA and illegal in Utah.
• These compounds were found in herbal supplements mislabeled as “cat’s claw,” a generally safe supplement, often sold under brand names like “Buzzers,” which falsely claim to be kratom-free but produce strong psychoactive effects.
• Utah health officials warn that these products contain dangerous opioids derived from kratom and advise against their use, highlighting risks of addiction, withdrawal, and overdose.
• Similar warnings have been issued in Tennessee and Virginia after synthetic kratom compounds were found in cat’s claw products causing opioid-like effects, amid growing concerns about kratom-related deaths and poisonings.
• Kratom and its derivatives are banned or regulated in multiple states, with the FDA and DEA moving to classify certain kratom compounds as illicit substances due to their addictive and potentially deadly effects.