The U.S. saw a record 27% drop in drug overdose deaths in 2024, with approximately 80,000 fatalities — down from 110,000 in 2023, according to new CDC data. This is the steepest one-year decline since tracking began 45 years ago.
All but two states reported fewer deaths, with significant drops in Ohio and West Virginia. Experts attribute the decline to several factors, including:
- Wider access to naloxone, now available over the counter
- Expanded addiction treatment services
- Changes in drug use patterns
- Use of opioid settlement funds for prevention and recovery programs
The decrease may also reflect demographic shifts, as high-risk users age out and younger people avoid the deadliest substances.
Despite the decline, overdose deaths remain higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health officials warn that funding cuts and shifts in political priorities could reverse gains.
Roughly $50 billion from opioid-related lawsuits is being distributed nationwide, supporting harm reduction, treatment, and housing programs. A separate $7 billion settlement with the Sackler family, owners of Purdue Pharma, could add to these efforts.
Advocates stress the need to stay focused. “Now is not the time to take the foot off the gas,” said Dr. Daniel Ciccarone of UCSF. Others, like Dr. Tamara Olt, who lost her son to an overdose, credit naloxone access and rising awareness for the progress.
While encouraging, experts caution that the crisis is far from over — and continued action is essential.
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