U.S. Sees Significant Decline in Overdose Deaths Amid Drug Supply Changes
Originally Published 1 year ago — by The Seattle Times
U.S. overdose deaths have declined for seven consecutive months, attributed to weaker fentanyl potency due to government crackdowns on supply chains, expanded treatment and prevention efforts, and harm reduction programs. The DEA reports a decrease in fentanyl potency, linked to law enforcement actions against Mexican cartels. Other factors include increased availability of overdose reversal medications, public awareness campaigns, and shifts in drug use patterns, such as the mixing of fentanyl with xylazine and the rise of psychostimulants. Despite progress, overdose deaths remain high, with disparities among racial groups and regions.
