Utah health officials warn against "cat's claw" and kratom-extract products after four deaths

Utah health, poison control, and agriculture officials issued an urgent public health warning on October 5, 2026, after four deaths in the state linked to illegal, high-potency chemicals found in kratom products and supplements sold as "cat's claw."

The Poison Control Center is advising the public not to buy or use anything labeled "cat's claw," anything marked "adults only/21+," or any non-prescription product marketed as legal while promising a psychoactive high [1]. UDAF has identified the chemicals mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI) and dihydro-7-hydroxymitragynine (MGM-15) in products sold online and in local smoke shops and gas stations, often under brand names like "Buzzers" [1]. These products are mislabeled: they're marketed as "cat's claw" or by its scientific name, Uncaria tomentosa, but natural cat's claw itself is not harmful — it's the lab-confirmed presence of MGPI and MGM-15 that makes these dangerous [1]. The department says the DEA classified MGPI, MGM-15, and related chemicals as Schedule I controlled substances in August 2026 [1]. It also says these compounds act as opioids far more potent than morphine, with the attendant risks of addiction, severe withdrawal, overdose, and death [1]. Under Utah law, the department says only pure, natural leaf kratom may be sold legally; any product containing kratom extracts or semi-synthetic chemicals is illegal in the state [1].

For anyone using these products now, the department says naloxone (Narcan) is effective against an overdose, because the chemicals act on the body's opioid receptors [1]. It also says standard medical treatments for opioid dependence and withdrawal work for people struggling with these substances [1]. Anyone seeking immediate support, treatment guidance, or help with a possible overdose or withdrawal can call the Utah Poison Control Center, 24/7, at 1-800-222-1222 [1]. The department is also asking anyone who sees kratom extracts or semi-synthetic kratom products for sale in Utah to report them to UDAF by email [1].

Also reported: KUTV 2, Utah investigates 'cat's claw' products after 4 deaths linked to illegal kratom compounds.

References

1. Utah health officials warn of fatal overdoses involving illegal "cat's claw" and kratom product — Utah Department of Health and Human Services