Risks include dependence and respiratory depression

Baton Rouge, La. (October 19, 2026) — The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has issued an emergency rule adding three substances related to 7-hydroxymitragynine and mitragynine to Schedule I of Louisiana’s controlled dangerous substances list.

LDH Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein determined that placing the substances on Schedule I by emergency rule was necessary to avoid an imminent peril to the public health, safety, or welfare. Preclinical evidence indicates the substances are potent mu-opioid receptor agonists that carry risks associated with other opioid agonists, including dependence and respiratory depression.

“Louisiana is taking action to protect people from substances that pose a serious risk to public health,” said Secretary Greenstein. “These substances have a high potential for abuse and can cause dangerous effects, including dependence and respiratory depression. By adding them to Schedule I, we are taking the necessary steps to protect Louisiana families and communities.”

Louisiana law expressly allows the Secretary to use an emergency rule when placement of a substance in Schedule I is necessary to avoid an imminent threat to public health, safety, or welfare.

Schedule I substances are those determined to have a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use for treatment in the U.S., and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.

The emergency rule will remain in effect for the maximum period allowed by law or until a final rule is adopted, whichever occurs first.