Utah Health Officials Warn Of Fatal Overdoses Linked To Kratom And ‘Cat’s Claw’

Utah health, poison control, and agriculture officials issued an urgent public health warning on Monday following four deaths across the state linked to high-potency, illegal chemical compounds found in certain herbal supplements, including kratom products and “cat’s claw.” The Utah Poison Control Center strongly advises the public not to buy or use any products labeled as "cat's claw," products marked "adults only/21+," or any non-prescription item marketed as legal while promising psychoactive "highs", shares Monday’s announcement. Although these substances are illegal to sell in Utah, consumers can find them in some retail stores. The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food has identified dangerous semi-synthetic kratom chemicals—specifically MGPI and MGM-15—in products sold online, as well as in local smoke shops and gas stations. In August, the DEA classified MGPI and MGM-15 as Schedule I controlled substances. Under Utah law, only pure, natural leaf kratom products may be legally sold. Any product containing kratom extracts or semi-synthetic chemicals is illegal. If you see kratom extracts or semi-synthetic kratom being sold in Utah, report them by emailing udaf-kratom@utah.gov. For immediate support, call the Utah Poison Control Center 24/7 at 1-800-222-1222. Assistance is free and confidential.