The Utah Department of Agriculture & Food (UDAF) and the Utah Poison Control Center (UPCC) are issuing a warning regarding illegally sold kratom products mislabeled as cat’s claw products in Utah retailers.
Investigations are ongoing regarding a recent death and several severe health incidents associated with Buzzers-brand Cat’s Claw tablets found to contain illegal kratom alkaloids.
Testing revealed that the products contained mitragynine pseudoindoxyl and MGM-15. These are opioid-acting compounds derived from the kratom plant and are classified as Schedule I drugs in Utah under Title 58-37-2.
These substances were identified in multiple flavors and have been linked to overdose cases in recent weeks. During the 2026 legislative session, Utah banned kratom products other than pure-leaf products.
Kratom is a leafy plant containing psychoactive compounds, whereas cat’s claw is a woody vine and herbal supplement not expected to cause adverse effects. Cat’s claw products should not contain the psychoactive compounds found in kratom.
UDAF is working with law enforcement and retailers to ensure these mislabeled products are removed from shelves. The public is advised not to buy or consume Buzzers Cat’s Claw tablets and to safely destroy any existing product.
The UPCC recommends administering naloxone in suspected overdoses involving these products. Providers experienced in addiction management may treat patients experiencing opioid withdrawal.
Anyone concerned about adverse effects can call the Utah Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 at any time for free, expert advice.
