Federal and State Crackdown on Synthetic Kratom Compounds

On August 26, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) temporarily classified three semisynthetic kratom-related compounds—mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI), MGM-15 and MGM-16—as Schedule I substances for a two-year emergency period. The move targets high-potency derivatives of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), which can occur naturally in kratom at 1 %–2 % of leaf content but is also produced in concentrated forms.

CNNKratom Ban in Massachusetts Challenged by Retailers Over Schedule I Classification

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) leaves contain mitragynine, which can convert to the opioid-like 7-OH. Clinicians have reported rising numbers of patients seeking treatment for dependence on products containing concentrated 7-OH or its synthetic analogues. In July 2025, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommended Schedule I classification for 7-OH, prompting the DEA action. Several states have already moved against kratom-derived substances, including Connecticut, Kansas, Florida, Ohio, Kentucky and California.

CNNKratom Ban in Massachusetts Challenged by Retailers Over Schedule I Classification

• July 1 – Kansas prohibition on kratom-related substances takes effect; Connecticut schedules kratom and 7-OH as Schedule I.

Kratom Ban in Massachusetts Challenged by Retailers Over Schedule I Classification

• August 25 – DOJ announces emergency two-year Schedule I placement of MGPI, MGM-15 and MGM-16.

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• August 26 – DEA formally adds the three compounds to Schedule I.

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• August 28 – Massachusetts’ emergency regulation classifies all kratom products as Schedule I, prompting a retailer lawsuit.

Kratom Ban in Massachusetts Challenged by Retailers Over Schedule I Classification

• September 10 – HHS extends the public-comment period on a proposed potency threshold for 7-OH scheduling.

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U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche framed the scheduling as a pre-emptive measure to protect children and communities from addiction risks. The Department of Health and Human Services extended the comment deadline to September 10 to gather input on a proposed potency threshold for 7-OH. Massachusetts Commissioner Goldstein justified the statewide ban by citing overdose risks associated with highly potent 7-OH and synthetic derivatives.

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Clinicians warned the abrupt classification could drive dependent users into withdrawal without adequate support. Dr. Caleb Banta-Green of the University of Washington said the ban may impede research into potential therapeutic value. Dr. Kirsten Smith, formerly at Johns Hopkins, argued there is no scientific evidence justifying a heightened focus on semisynthetic 7-OH compared with natural kratom.

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A coalition of Massachusetts retailers filed a lawsuit challenging the August 28 emergency regulation. The plaintiffs contend the Commissioner exceeded statutory authority by applying a blanket Schedule I classification to all kratom forms, including leaf products that contain only trace 7-OH. They seek an injunction against enforcement of the ban.

Kratom Ban in Massachusetts Challenged by Retailers Over Schedule I Classification

• Market Presence of MGM-16: DEA officials cited concern that MGM-16 could emerge as a substitute, yet the DOJ noted its presence in consumer products has not been confirmed.

Kratom Ban in Massachusetts Challenged by Retailers Over Schedule I Classification

• Scope of Health Risks: Federal officials link the compounds to opioid-like effects, while some researchers note the binding affinity of semisynthetic derivatives is weaker than classic opioids, suggesting potentially lower impact. Evidence distinguishing risk levels between natural kratom, concentrated 7-OH, and synthetic analogues remains limited.

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• The public-comment window on HHS’s proposed 7-OH potency threshold remains open until September 10.

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• The Massachusetts lawsuit is pending; a court decision could affect the statewide Schedule I classification.

Kratom Ban in Massachusetts Challenged by Retailers Over Schedule I Classification

• The DEA’s emergency scheduling will remain in effect for two years, after which the agency may review the status of MGPI, MGM-15 and MGM-16.

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