Drug overdose deaths in the United States have skyrocketed over the last few decades. As reported by the National Center for Health Statistics, the age-adjusted rate of drug overdose deaths increased from 8.2 deaths per 100,000 standard population in 2002 to 32.6 in 2022.1 Nationwide, opioid-involved overdose deaths rose from 49,860 in 2019 to 81,806 in 2022.2 Furthermore, opioids, particularly illegally made fentanyl, are involved in the highest percentage of overdose deaths.3
In the last few years, overdoses have also increased in our community. In 2022, nearly three-quarters of all overdose deaths in Spokane County were from an opioid―and many involved fentanyl. The overdose epidemic affects people of all racial and ethnic groups, in cities, suburbs, small towns, and rural areas.
If you suspect someone is overdosing, always call 911 first. Naloxone is very effective in reversing an overdose from opioids and there is no harm from giving naloxone to someone who is not in an overdose.
Naloxone is a prescription medicine that temporarily stops the effect of opioids. Learn more about how this medication can help prevent an overdose.
