DEA Plans to Schedule Synthetic Kratom Derivatives as Controlled Substances

The Drug Enforcement Administration announced late last week that it intends to revise its definitions regarding kratom-based products. The agency plans to classify synthetic kratom derivatives as Schedule 1 controlled substances, a move that will reshape the regulatory landscape for the industry and its millions of users across the United States.

This decision follows advice from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and targets specific synthetic compounds rather than the natural plant material. The DEA’s proposed rule focuses on outlawing these artificial derivatives, distinguishing them from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree. This targeted approach aims to address safety concerns linked to recent high-profile deaths and injury reports associated with certain kratom products, while potentially preserving access to natural variants.

Regulatory Context and Industry Reaction

The proposed regulations represent a significant shift in the long-running debate over kratom’s safety and potential medical benefits. Mac Haddow, senior fellow on public policy for the American Kratom Association, stated that the organization is absolutely supportive of banning or scheduling these synthetic compounds. This endorsement marks a notable moment of alignment between regulators and industry advocates, who have previously engaged in years of protests and legal battles over the substance’s status.

Kratom is a complex substance containing dozens of alkaloid compounds that interact with the body in various ways. At higher doses, some of these compounds activate mu opioid receptors in the brain, similar to classic opioids like morphine. At lower doses, however, kratom provides a stimulant-like effect. The primary active ingredients in natural kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, with the latter accounting for only about 2% of the total alkaloid content in the plant.

Usage Trends and Demographics

Public use of kratom has increased significantly in the United States in recent years. According to nationally representative survey data cited in the report, an estimated 1.7 million Americans aged 12 and older used kratom in 2021. A study conducted in early May by researchers at the University of Michigan found that roughly five million Americans have used kratom at least once in their lifetime.

This lifetime usage figure includes more than 100,000 children between the ages of 12 and 17. Data suggests that kratom use has continued to rise since the 2021 survey period. Proponents of the substance argue that it can be used safely to manage chronic pain or serve as an accessible alternative treatment for substance use disorders, particularly those involving opioids. The new regulations aim to establish a safe middle ground for these users while mitigating risks associated with synthetic additives.

What should you do?

Security and technology professionals should monitor regulatory updates that may impact compliance requirements for platforms handling health-related products or user data. Organizations involved in the distribution or sale of kratom products should review their inventory to ensure compliance with the upcoming ban on synthetic derivatives. Companies should also prepare for potential changes in labeling and sourcing documentation to distinguish between natural and synthetic compounds.

What to do and how to stay safe: DEA

• Review product inventory and supply chains to identify any synthetic kratom derivatives that may fall under the new Schedule 1 classification.
• Update internal compliance policies and vendor agreements to reflect the DEA’s revised definitions of controlled substances.
• Monitor official communications from the DEA and HHS for final rule publications and implementation timelines.
• Educate customer support and sales teams on the distinction between natural kratom and banned synthetic compounds to ensure accurate consumer information.

Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

What specific kratom products are being targeted by the new DEA regulations?

The DEA plans to outlaw synthetic kratom derivatives, classifying them as Schedule 1 controlled substances, while distinguishing them from natural kratom leaves.

Does the American Kratom Association support this new regulatory approach?

Yes, Mac Haddow of the American Kratom Association stated they are absolutely supportive of banning or scheduling synthetic kratom compounds.

How many Americans have used kratom according to recent studies?

A University of Michigan study found roughly five million Americans have used kratom at least once, with 1.7 million using it in 2021.