Utah expands warning after four deaths linked to mislabeled semi-synthetic kratom products

Why it matters

Utah officials report four deaths linked to high-potency compounds in herbal supplements, including products mislabeled as cat's claw. The warning identifies semi-synthetic opioid compounds, rather than establishing that natural leaf kratom caused these deaths.

The big picture

A July advisory described one Utah death and severe health incidents involving mislabeled Buzzers tablets. The October statewide warning reports four deaths and continued retail availability despite sales restrictions. It distinguishes Utah's pure-leaf sales rules from federal temporary controls on specific derivatives.

Key findings

• Utah health, poison-control and agriculture officials issued the October 5 warning after four deaths linked to illegal compounds in certain herbal supplements.
• Laboratory testing identified mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI) and dihydro-7-hydroxymitragynine (MGM-15) in products marketed as cat's claw or Uncaria tomentosa.
• Officials report these products online and in smoke shops and gas stations; labels may claim they are legal and kratom-free while promising psychoactive effects.
• Utah permits only pure, natural leaf kratom sales; MGPI and MGM-15 are also subject to federal temporary Schedule I controls, distinct from a proposal for 7-OH.
• The advisory says naloxone can reverse overdoses involving these opioid-acting compounds and directs people with withdrawal symptoms to medical care and Utah Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

What they say

Utah officials state: "Although these substances are illegal to sell in Utah, consumers could find them in some retail stores."

Bottom line

Utah's expanded warning concerns mislabeled products containing potent semi-synthetic compounds; the reported death links should not be generalized to natural leaf kratom.