The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office is warning parents and residents about products marketed as “Cat’s Claw” that may contain kratom-derived compounds that are not clearly identified on their labels.
The sheriff’s office said some of the products may contain MGM-15 or other kratom analogs.
According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, 18 deaths involving kratom have been reported in Knox County so far in 2026. Five of those cases involved kratom alkaloids as the cause of death.
RCSO says products being legally sold may not always make it clear what compounds they contain. The agency is encouraging parents to talk with their children about what they are taking and urging residents to know what is in products before using them.
“When in doubt, don’t take it,” the sheriff’s office said.
For more information about kratom, its effects and emerging trends involving kratom-derived products, residents can learn more here.
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