COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — Ohio officials are warning consumers that some products marketed as dietary supplements may contain illegal substances, including synthetic drugs linked to serious health risks and fatal overdoses.
Gov. Mike DeWine and Attorney General Andy Wilson issued a public warning through the Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center (ONIC) and Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). Officials say multiple products labeled as the herbal supplement cat’s claw have been found to contain illegal synthetic kratom. In one case, a package of a product called “Happy Daze Botanical Mango,” labeled as 375 milligrams of cat’s claw, was found at the scene of a fatal overdose. BCI testing identified synthetic kratom in the package, although toxicology results from the overdose are still pending.
Synthetic kratom compounds were banned in Ohio in 2025 and can produce opioid-like effects. Authorities say the substances are highly addictive and have been linked to psychosis, seizures, insomnia, hallucinations and death. Investigators have also identified mislabeled products containing other illegal substances, including synthetic opioids and LSD. Officials say these products are often sold at gas stations and vape shops in colorful packaging that advertises natural ingredients.
Consumers who encounter questionable products can report them to ONIC by calling 1-833-644-6642 or submitting a tip through the agency’s online tip and lead form. DeWine and Wilson are urging consumers to avoid unregulated herbal supplements when their ingredients cannot be verified.
