New Jersey Banned Three Synthetic Kratom Compounds
State residents should note that three specific synthetic substances are now classified as Schedule I controlled substances.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Substance Abuse
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New Jersey has officially banned three synthetic kratom compounds, classifying them as Schedule I controlled substances. This regulatory change follows a federal decision and applies to mitragynine pseudoindoxyl, MGM-15, and MGM-16.
Why it matters
Federal authorities identified these specific compounds as threats to public health with high potential for abuse. The state action aligns New Jersey law with these federal safety findings to restrict access to these substances.
The federal Drug Enforcement Administration issued a scheduling order for three synthetic compounds based on public health risk assessments. These substances are now classified as Schedule I, with current projections indicating the restrictions will remain in effect through August 2028.
The players
Drug Enforcement Administration
The federal agency responsible for enforcing controlled substances laws and classifying drugs by abuse potential.
New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
The state entity that manages professional licensing and consumer protection, including the regulation of controlled substances.
The details
The compounds were added to the state controlled substance list because New Jersey law automatically incorporates federal scheduling when the state director does not object. These synthetic derivatives of kratom were targeted due to their documented potential for abuse and public health risk. Importantly, natural kratom is not included in this ban and remains legal in the state.
Timeline
August 2026: The federal Drug Enforcement Administration temporarily classified the three compounds as Schedule I.
August 26, 2026: The federal scheduling order took effect.
September 25, 2026: The compounds became illegal in New Jersey.
August 26, 2028: The federal scheduling order is scheduled to expire unless extended.
Health Landscape
This regulatory update follows the framework set by the Controlled Substances Act, which allows for rapid alignment between state and federal drug classifications. It marks a broader trend of increased scrutiny toward synthetic compounds that mimic natural substances while posing different safety profiles.
Residents should be aware that no form of kratom is currently approved for medical use in the United States. If you have questions about the safety or legal status of any supplements you are taking, it is worth discussing them with your doctor.
The takeaway
Synthetic kratom derivatives are now regulated as strictly as other high-risk controlled substances. If you are concerned about supplement safety or potential interactions with other medications, consult your primary care provider for guidance.
Further reading
For more information on the risks associated with various substances, visit the Substance Abuse section.
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Should states ban synthetic compounds that have been classified as Schedule I by federal authorities?
