AMA updates kratom policy brief for 2027 state legislative sessions

Why it matters

The American Medical Association's updated brief signals the policy positions it will bring to state-level kratom discussions as legislators prepare for 2027 sessions. The document distinguishes its recommendations on synthesized, purified, and derivative products from a general description of all kratom products.

The big picture

State approaches to kratom and 7-OH vary substantially, while federal agencies and researchers continue to assess safety, product composition, and appropriate oversight. Professional medical organizations can influence state policy debates through model language, issue briefs, and public-health recommendations, but their positions are advocacy guidance rather than enacted law.

Key findings

• The AMA released an updated issue brief on kratom as states begin preparing for 2027 legislative sessions.
• The brief cites information on kratom use disorder, National Poison Data System reports, and DOJ and FDA warnings.
• The AMA supports legislation targeting synthesized, purified, or derivative kratom products, including unregulated mitragynine, 7-OH, and MGM-15 products.
• Its policy also supports research and clinical trials to assess safety and efficacy before products are marketed, purchased, or prescribed.
• The AMA supports classifying 7-OH products as adulterated or misbranded when sold in child-appealing forms and limiting minors' access.

What they say

The AMA said its updated issue brief highlights kratom's public-health harms and previous state legislative efforts, while its policies support research and regulatory evaluation of kratom and its derivatives.

Bottom line

The AMA is urging states to pair targeted controls on concentrated or derivative products with research and regulatory evaluation, rather than presenting its brief as a new law.