Drug overdose deaths in the U.S. decrease for the first time in half a decade

The United States Sees First Decline in Drug Overdose Deaths Since 2018

In a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing opioid crisis, new data from 2023 shows the first decline in drug overdose deaths in the United States since 2018. According to CDC statisticians, there were an estimated 107,543 drug overdose deaths in 2023, a 3% decrease from the 111,029 deaths in 2022.

The epidemic of addiction to prescription opioids like Oxycontin, combined with the introduction of lethal additives to street drugs such as fentanyl or xylazine, has fueled a steady rise in drug-related deaths over the past few years. However, the new numbers from 2023 offer a ray of hope for Americans.

Overall, fatal drug overdoses fell slightly in 2023, including overdoses linked to opioids, which declined from 84,181 in 2022 to 81,083 in 2023. Some states, such as Nebraska, Kansas, Indiana, and Maine, saw declines in fatal overdoses of 15% or more, while others like Alaska, Washington, and Oregon, experienced increases.

While fewer people died in overdoses involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl, the rate of fatal overdoses involving cocaine and psychostimulants such as methamphetamine actually rose in 2023. Despite this, the CDC noted that this is the first annual decrease in drug overdose deaths since 2018.

It is important to note that the 2023 data is still incomplete and subject to change as more information is submitted to the National Vital Statistics System. For more resources to help fight drug abuse, visit USA.gov.