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

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 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.” Dr. Michael Moss, the medical director of the Utah Poison Control Center, said one of the four deaths was linked to a Buzzers product.

“These cat’s claw products contain dangerous opioids derived from kratom,” Moss said. “No one should take these products, retailers should not sell them, and healthcare providers…

Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/health