Trends in Opioid-Related Overdose Deaths in the United States

Since 1999, more than 1.2 million people in the United States have died from a drug overdose. Over the same period, the share of fatal drug overdoses involving opioids has increased every year – rising from under 50% in 1999 to over 75% since 2021. While recent data suggest a national decline in opioid-related overdose deaths, the crisis remains severe. This brief explores the recent decline in opioid-related overdose deaths, potential contributing factors, and the ongoing challenges that demand continued public health attention.