Summit County health officials warn of hidden drugs in some smoke shop products

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — The Summit County Health Department is warning residents that some products sold in smoke shops and online may contain hidden synthetic opioids linked to serious overdoses, dependence and withdrawal.

According to the health department, some products labeled as containing kava or cat’s claw, including brands such as “Buzzers” and “Homiez,” may contain powerful opioid-like substances that are not listed on the packaging.

Several people have become seriously ill after using the products, the department said. Testing remains underway, and officials cautioned that the products involved may be mislabeled.

The Summit County Health Department recommends avoiding kava or cat’s claw products purchased from smoke shops while the investigation continues.

If someone cannot be awakened or is not breathing, call 911 and administer naloxone, commonly sold under the brand name Narcan, if it is available.

People concerned about dependence or withdrawal should contact a health care provider or addiction specialist, according to the department.

Anyone who becomes ill after using one of the products can contact the Utah Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. The center is available 24 hours a day.

Concerns about kratom-related products may also be reported to the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food.

The health department emphasized that the warning does not apply to all kava, cat’s claw or kratom products.