Four deaths in Utah have been linked to potent semi-synthetic kratom compounds, state officials said Monday.The kratom-derived compounds, mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI) and dihydro-7-hydroxymitragynine (MGM-15), are illegal in the state and were recently classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as Schedule 1 drugs.Both are semi-synthetic derivatives of kratom.Utah health, poison center and agriculture officials warned that the compounds were found in certain herbal supplements, including kratom products, as well as products labeled “cat’s claw.” Cat’s claw is not a harmful supplement, but testing in these cases revealed it contained MPGI and MGM-15, the statement said.
The warning said that the products were “often sold under brand names like ‘Buzzers’ and are misleadingly labeled as containing ‘cat’s claw’ or its scientific name Uncaria tomentosa.” The labels, officials said, often claim the product is “legal and free of kratom, yet warn it is for ‘adults only/21+’ or produces strong psychoactive effects.” (The warning does not directly link the Buzzers’ products to the deaths.)“These cat’s claw products contain dangerous opioids derived from kratom,” said Dr.Michael Moss, the medical director of the Utah Poison Control Center.
“No one should take these products, retailers should not sell them, and healthcare providers should be aware of potential for addiction, withdrawal, and overdose related to their use.”Experts say that cat’s claw, which comes from a South American vine, is generally safe.It’s taken by some people for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Kratom is used for pain relief, depression and opioid withdrawal but is highly addictive and can cause overdose and death in extreme cases.Neither are approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
The agency says kratom is not appropriate for use as a dietary supplement.Exo Club, which makes Buzzers, did not immediately respond to a request for comment...