Governor Kim Reynolds, along with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS), has issued a public warning regarding the escalating dangers of kratom and highly concentrated synthetic kratom-related products across Iowa. Officials emphasize that despite their availability, these products are not safe.
"Kratom is not a supplement, it is not a medicine, and it is not safe," Governor Reynolds said, highlighting their widespread presence in convenience stores. Dr. Robert Kruse, State Medical Director at Iowa HHS, expressed significant concern over synthetic 7-OH products, which "can have powerful opioid-like effects and pose serious health risks." He added that these products, though sold over the counter, can lead to dependence, severe illness, overdose, and death.
Iowa data reveals a sharp increase in adverse outcomes, with 45 kratom-associated deaths confirmed since 2024, including 16 in the first seven months of 2026. The Iowa Poison Control has also seen a 467% increase in kratom exposure calls over two years, totaling 68 calls this year.
The Drug Enforcement Administration recently classified three synthetic kratom-derived compounds as Schedule I controlled substances, with 7-OH currently under review for emergency scheduling. DPS Commissioner Stephan Bayens noted, "Our officers are seeing firsthand how quickly these substances can lead to severe medical emergencies." He warned that products sold at gas stations capable of stopping someone’s breathing pose a threat to every community.
Officials urge Iowans to avoid concentrated or synthetic 7-OH products, recognize opioid-type overdose signs, and use naloxone if available. Support is accessible via 988, Your Life Iowa, or Poison Help. Iowa HHS plans to expand its public health campaign to further alert residents to these risks.