Missouri AG Expands Probe Into Kratom and 7-OH Products

Investigation targets supply chain of unregulated opioid-like substances

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:50am

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Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has announced that her office is expanding a statewide investigation into kratom and 7-OH products, targeting the supply chain of these unregulated opioid-like substances. The Columbia Police Department has reported encountering individuals with symptoms consistent with the side effects of these products, which are being sold at various locations across the city and county.

Why it matters

The expansion of this investigation highlights the growing concern over the proliferation of kratom and 7-OH, which are not federally regulated and can pose serious health risks. As the attorney general vows to hold businesses accountable for manufacturing, distributing or selling these unsafe and unapproved products, the case underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing the complex issue of emerging synthetic opioids.

The details

Attorney General Hanaway says 22 entities are now under investigation as part of the probe. Columbia Police Chief Jill Schlude notes that 7-OH is being sold at numerous locations across the city and county, and that the department has encountered individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with the side effects of these products. Schlude also compares the current situation to the past issues with bath salts, another class of unregulated substances that posed public health risks.

  • The investigation was announced by Attorney General Hanaway on April 8, 2026.
  • Hanaway filed a lawsuit against CBD American Shaman on March 31, 2026 as part of the broader probe.

The players

Catherine Hanaway

The Attorney General of Missouri who is leading the statewide investigation into kratom and 7-OH products.

Jill Schlude

The Police Chief of Columbia, Missouri who has reported encountering individuals with symptoms consistent with the use of 7-OH products in the city.

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What they’re saying

“The tough thing for us is you know we're not, this isn't something that we can test for. I'm not aware of any test that they do in the hospital necessarily that the police would have access to.”

— Jill Schlude, Police Chief, Columbia, Missouri

“Business owners who choose to manufacture, distribute or sell unsafe and unapproved opioid products in Missouri will be held accountable.”

— Catherine Hanaway, Attorney General, Missouri

What’s next

The attorney general's office will continue its investigation into the 22 entities identified, with the goal of holding any businesses accountable for the manufacture, distribution or sale of unsafe and unapproved opioid-like substances.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing challenge of regulating emerging synthetic opioids like kratom and 7-OH, which can pose serious health risks but are not currently subject to federal oversight. The Missouri Attorney General's expanded investigation underscores the need for stronger enforcement and public awareness around these unregulated products.