Missouri Sees Hopeful Drop in Drug Overdose Deaths

A Promising Trend

Missouri has experienced a notable decrease in drug overdose deaths for the second consecutive year. In 2024, the state reported 1,450 deaths, marking a 25.6% decrease from the previous year. This positive trend is evident across all regions, with Central Missouri seeing the largest decline at 37%.

Factors Behind the Improvement

Experts attribute this progress to increased awareness and easier access to treatment. Heather Harlan, a health program coordinator, highlighted that people are becoming more cautious with their drug use. She emphasized the importance of purchasing substances only from licensed sellers due to the widespread presence of fentanyl in various drugs.

Opioids and Stimulants: A Mixed Picture

• Opioid-related deaths have decreased by 10%.
• Stimulants remain a major concern, though deaths involving both opioids and stimulants, as well as deaths from stimulants alone, have dropped significantly in the central region.
• Fentanyl-related deaths have also seen a notable decline.

Continued Efforts Needed

Despite the progress, the numbers remain high. The Midwest's mortality rate from overdoses has dropped, but it is still a serious issue. Harlan stressed the need for continued efforts to further reduce these numbers.

The Role of Naloxone

The availability of naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses, has been a game-changer. The Department of Health and Senior Services credits this, along with other factors, for the decline in deaths. They are hosting a Save a Life training event to educate the public on how to use naloxone.

The Fight Continues

While the trend is promising, there is still much work to be done. Every life lost to an overdose is a tragedy, and the fight to prevent these deaths continues.