May 16, 2024 – Drug overdose deaths declined within the United States last 12 months. The excellent news was mixed: While opioid deaths declined probably the most, opioids remained the leading reason for death.
The CDC report puts a cap on the steep increase in overdose deaths over the past five years, which pushed the annual death toll above 100,000. The decline between 2022 and 2023 was modest and is estimated at 3%, a difference of about 3,500 deaths.
The welcome decline is essentially on account of fewer deaths from opioid overdoses, but deaths from other drugs, reminiscent of the stimulants cocaine and methamphetamine, increased.
Overall, greater than 80,000 deaths were attributable to opioids (mostly synthetic opioids reminiscent of fentanyl and tramadol) in 2023. Opioid deaths decreased by 3.7% from 2022. However, cocaine overdose deaths increased by 5%, and deaths from other psychostimulants reminiscent of methamphetamine increased by 2% in 2023 in comparison with the previous 12 months.
The latest overall estimate assumes that 107,543 deaths can be attributed to drug overdoses in 2023, in comparison with 111,029 in 2022. The data is taken into account preliminary because drug overdose deaths are sometimes initially reported as “no cause of death” due to the lengthy investigations required, which can include toxicology tests that may take months to verify.
A senior CDC official called the numbers “encouraging news” and said the progress should encourage further efforts.
“Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones and those who are struggling with addiction or know someone who is,” said CDC Chief Medical Officer Debra Houry, MD, MPH, in a opinion“Our country is determined to end this epidemic and prevent unnecessary death and suffering.”
Individuals and families affected by substance abuse can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Helpline at 800-662-4357. Open year-round, the helpline is free, confidential, and offers treatment referral and data services in English and Spanish 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.