The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food and the Utah Poison Control Center issued an urgent alert on July 30, 2026, after detecting illegal kratom-derived tablets linked to a recent death and several serious health incidents in the state. The investigation centers on Buzzers Cat's Claw, a product marketed as a cat's claw supplement that testing revealed contains prohibited compounds derived from the kratom plant.
Illegal Synthetic Compounds Identified
According to the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF), the Buzzers Cat's Claw tablets have been identified in various flavors and have been linked to multiple reported overdose cases over recent weeks. Laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of mitragynine pseudoindoxyl and MGM-15, two compounds with effects similar to opioids. Under Utah state law, both substances are classified as Schedule I drugs, making their possession and sale strictly prohibited.
Deceptive Marketing Practices
The products were falsely advertised as cat's claw, an herbal supplement derived from a woody vine that typically does not produce opioid-like effects. Instead, the tablets contained synthetic derivatives of kratom, a plant known for its psychoactive properties that can act as both a stimulant and an opioid. The UDAF is currently working alongside law enforcement agencies and retailers to remove these products from the market and prevent further distribution to consumers.
Urgent Public Safety Recommendations
Health officials and state authorities have issued specific directives to the public to mitigate further harm. The UDAF is advising consumers not to purchase or consume any Buzzers Cat's Claw tablets and has recommended that anyone currently in possession of the product destroy it safely. Retailers have been ordered to immediately remove the items from their shelves and contact the UDAF Specialized Products Division.
Emergency Medical Guidance
The Utah Poison Control Center has advised that in the event of a suspected overdose related to these products, naloxone should be administered. The center remains a 24-hour resource providing free and private assistance. Anyone experiencing concerning symptoms or adverse reactions after consuming the tablets is urged to seek immediate medical attention and contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Risks of Synthetic Kratom
The danger of these synthetic compounds highlights broader concerns regarding the kratom market in Utah. According to UDAF guidelines, synthetic kratom concentrates, such as those containing 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) or pseudoindoxyl, are significantly more potent than natural leaf products. Specifically, these synthetic compounds can be more potent than morphine at opioid receptors, making their effects unpredictable and highly dangerous.
Utah Kratom Regulations
Utah maintains strict regulations to ensure the safety and purity of kratom products sold within the state. Legal kratom can only be sold through a Specialty Tobacco Retail Business with a specific license scope. Furthermore, only pure leaf kratom is permitted, and consumers are encouraged to only purchase products that appear on the state's Registered Product Lista list of items that have been reviewed and tested for compliance.
Ongoing Investigation and Risks
The UDAF continues to investigate the death and the various health incidents associated with the Buzzers Cat's Claw product. The agency emphasizes that consumers should look for clear labeling that specifies the amount of mitragynine and 7-OH present. The department also notes that kratom use can lead to physical dependence, addiction, and serious health issues, including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and respiratory problems, as well as contamination with heavy metals or bacteria.
