Department of Consumer Protection Releases Guidance for Businesses Regarding Controlled Substance Drug Schedule Updates

HARTFORD - The Department of Consumer Protection is advising business owners to immediately remove from shelves all products recently designated Schedule 1 Controlled Substances. Products should be destroyed or returned to their wholesaler by March 25, 2026.

The Legislative Regulation Review Committee recently approved regulations to designate the following substances as Schedule 1 Controlled Substances:

• Mitragyna speciosa (kratom), including its leaves, stem and any extracts
• 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH, a kratom derivative)
• Bromazolam
• Flubromazolam
• Nitazenes, including, but not limited to, isotonitazene
• Tianeptine
• Phenibut

That means it is illegal to possess, manufacture, sell or distribute these drugs. Doing so could result in serious penalties, including felony charges. These products come in a variety of consumable products, including beverages, tinctures, pills, gummies, and more. All products containing any of the scheduled substances are illegal.

Businesses offering these products for sale should:

• Remove them from shelves immediately.
• Prior to March 25, 2026, return all products to your wholesaler or destroy the products. Information about how to destroy unwanted controlled substances can be found on the Department of Consumer protection website.

Individuals struggling with addiction to these or any other substances can find information about available services, including treatment, withdrawal management and rehabilitation programs by visiting the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services website.

Questions about controlled substances can be directed to DCP's Drug Control Division by email [email protected].