State and national snapshots of overdose epidemic tell complicated story
The AMA is increasingly concerned by the growing presence of unregulated, toxic substances in the illicit drug supply. This includes increased use of cannabis and hemp-derived intoxicating cannabis products, kratom, tianeptine, medetomidine and a wide range of psychedelics.
In two new issue briefs covering the scope of the nation’s overdose epidemic for the first half of the year, news reports, research and other information show an increasingly complicated picture even as overdose deaths thankfully are decreasing. The state (PDF) and national (PDF) snapshots are a collection of research, news stories, state reports and other information. The snapshots highlight items from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
In general, the snapshots show that while overdose deaths are continuing to decline, the epidemic remains largely driven by illegally made fentanyl. In addition to concerns about fentanyl, however, polysubstance use and emerging substances (e.g., medetomidine, nitazines, cychloprhine) are raising concerns in some areas of the country.
In addition to polysubstance-related concerns, the snapshots show how states are grappling with harms related to kratom and tianeptine, including policies to restrict their availability in commercial sales. Psychedelics, ketamine, cannabis, and intoxicating hemp products also are raising concerns in many states.
There is clear consensus in most parts of the country, however, for increased availability of naloxone and treatment with medications for opioid use disorder (buprenorphine, methadone).
More articles in this issue
- Top stories of Advocacy Update: July 2026
- July 31, 2026: National Advocacy Update
- July 31, 2026: Judicial Advocacy Update
