DEA’s 2026 Kratom Actions: Two Federal Tracks, Explained

This article summarizes two federal actions and their status as of September 19, 2026. One concerns MGPI, MGM-15 and MGM-16; the other concerns proposed 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) thresholds. It is a dated explanation, not a determination of the law today.

Each category presents different chemistry. Fresh or dried kratom leaf is usually dominated by mitragynine and contains comparatively little 7-OH. Concentrated or manufactured products can produce a very different exposure in a much smaller unit.

One announcement, two legal tracks

DEA's July 2026 announcement introduced two actions. The first became an effective temporary Schedule I order for mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI), MGM-15, and MGM-16 on August 26, 2026. The second proposed thresholds for 7-OH in botanical material and processed articles. HHS accepted comments on the 7-OH proposal through September 10; as of September 19, that proposal remained at the notice-and-comment stage.

Keeping the tracks separate shows exactly which compounds entered Schedule I and which 7-OH threshold remained proposed.

What changed for the market

Products sold through broad phrases such as “advanced kratom,” “legal alternative,” or “botanical tablet” now require more scrutiny. Check the active compound, how its amount is expressed, and the matching lab results for the product or source material.

The temporary order places MGPI, MGM-15, and MGM-16 in Schedule I through August 26, 2028 unless extended or replaced sooner. DOJ described limited enforcement discretion for incidental trace MGPI in otherwise botanical kratom material. MGM-15 and MGM-16 remain fully within the order.

Why traditional leaf and MIT require their own descriptions

Traditional kratom leaf, a concentrated mitragynine product, an elevated 7-OH product, and an MGM derivative can all be placed in a pouch, tablet, gummy, or bottle. To tell them apart, check the substance name, amount basis, ingredients, and laboratory record for that material or product.

Kratom Paradise focuses on plain leaf, concentrated MIT products, and separate kava and kratom gummy lines.

Sources and dated reporting

• DEA's July 2026 announcement
• HHS statement on the proposed 7-OH action
• FDA's July 2025 announcement on concentrated 7-OH products
• FDA: Hiding in Plain Sight—7-OH Products
• The 2016 Federal Register withdrawal record
• Associated Press reporting from 2025
• Wired reporting on the 2026 proposal
• Axios Kansas City reporting on state and federal context

Image credits

• DEA Administrator Terrance Cole official portrait
• Robert F. Kennedy Jr. official portrait
• Markwayne Mullin official portrait
• Hart Senate Office Building hearing room