Attorney General Kris Mayes has issued a warning to Arizona residents about the risks of certain products being sold as kratom or “all-natural” supplements in gas stations, smoke shops, and convenience stores across the state. According to Mayes, many of these products contain highly concentrated synthetic substances such as 7-hydroxymitragynine (“7-OH”) and other compounds that act similarly to synthetic opioids. These items are sometimes referred to by names like “legal morphine” or “gas station heroin.”
“These products are really dangerous and basically act like synthetic opioids, and I have already heard from parents whose kids have become addicted to these products sold over the counter across the state,” said Attorney General Kris Mayes. “The Legislature passed the Arizona Kratom Consumer Protection Act to keep dangerous products off the shelves and out of kids’ hands. Companies that ignore this law and push these drugs into Arizona communities are harming public health and safety.”
Arizona was among the first states to regulate kratom through the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (A.R.S. §§ 36-795 to 36-795.03). The law aims to prevent adulterated or synthetic products from reaching consumers and requires basic safety measures, including labeling standards.
State regulations prohibit processors and retailers from selling kratom products that are adulterated with non-kratom substances, contaminated with harmful materials (including controlled substances), or containing more than two percent 7-hydroxymitragynine in their alkaloid composition. Synthetic alkaloids derived from kratom are also banned, as is failing to list mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine content on product labels. Additionally, sales of any kratom product to individuals under eighteen years old are not allowed.
“My office is aware of multiple cases where kratom products have been sold to minors in violation of state law and we are working to hold these bad actors accountable,” said Attorney General Mayes. “But law enforcement needs stronger tools to effectively combat this growing problem.”
Mayes pointed out that current laws can be difficult for authorities to enforce because proving a product is adulterated or harmful often requires advanced laboratory testing and expert testimony—resources typically used for major felony cases rather than misdemeanors.
“In its current form, Arizona’s kratom law asks prosecutors to clear a high-bar just to prove a misdemeanor,” said Attorney General Mayes. “Most law enforcement agencies simply don’t have the labs, experts, or budget to do that on a routine basis.”
To address these challenges, Mayes announced plans to work with lawmakers during the next legislative session in January with an aim toward strengthening protections around kratom sales and providing clearer enforcement tools.
“In the upcoming legislative session, I will be asking members of both parties to work with my office to strengthen this law and increase penalties for those selling these products to minors,” said Attorney General Mayes.
Mayes advised consumers in Arizona to exercise caution when purchasing supplements marketed as quick remedies for pain, anxiety, focus, or energy—especially if labeled as kratom or “7-OH.” She warned against buying items presented in brightly colored packaging targeted at teens or those using vague descriptions such as “all natural,” “dietary supplement,” or boasting effects like “extra strength” without disclosing ingredient details.
“Arizonans deserve to know what is really in these products,” said Attorney General Mayes. “Our law draws a clear line: no ultra-high 7-OH products and no sales to minors. I look forward to working with the Legislature to tighten this statute so that we can better protect Arizonans and go after bad actors exploiting the system to sell these dangerous products.”
Anyone experiencing adverse reactions after using kratom or related products should seek medical attention immediately. Poison Control can be reached at 1-800-222-1222 at any time. Suspected illegal sales can be reported either locally or directly through the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.
