Florida State University expert available to provide analysis on steep decline in U.S. drug overdose deaths

On Wednesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published an encouraging report about the steep declines in U.S. drug overdose deaths, which fell in 2024 to their lowest levels in five years.

The drop from 110,037 deaths in 2023 to 80,391 in 2024 — a decrease of 26.9% — points to a positive trajectory. The decline marks the lowest level since 2019; deaths rose sharply during the pandemic between 2020-22.

A decrease in deaths was seen in several drug types, most notably synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which fell from 76,282 in 2023 to 48,422 in 2024.

Dr. Mohamed Kabbaj, a Florida State University College of Medicine professor, conducts extensive research in the areas of stress, drug addiction and social behaviors. The Kabbaj Lab examines the individual differences in stress responsiveness and response to drugs of abuse.

Kabbaj views the CDC report on the decline in U.S. drug overdose deaths as positive but remains cautiously optimistic due to negative trends in some states.

“This is encouraging news, as any decrease in drug overdoses and lives saved is a positive step forward,” Kabbaj said. “The nearly 50% reduction in opioid overdoses is particularly promising. However, as the report highlights, we are only returning to pre-opioid epidemic levels. While most states are seeing declines, some — such as South Dakota and Nevada — are still experiencing rising overdose rates, particularly involving fentanyl.

“This may be linked to high levels of alcohol consumption in these states, as the combination of alcohol and fentanyl is especially dangerous and could be contributing to the increased overdose rates.”

Media inquiries for Kabbaj can reach him via email at mohamed.kabbaj@med.fsu.edu.

Dr. Mohamed Kabbaj, professor and director of the Kabbaj Lab, College of Medicine

 As a drug addiction expert, what do you think are the biggest factors in the sharp decline of U.S. drug overdose deaths?
“Several factors likely contribute to this positive trend. The increased availability of Narcan, the opioid overdose reversal drug — particularly among first responders — has likely saved many lives. Its recent FDA approval as an over-the-counter medication has further improved public access. Additionally, public awareness efforts by the media and education system have played a significant role in informing people about the dangers of drug use and the life-saving potential of Narcan. The DEA has also made significant strides in regulating prescription opioids, prompting physicians to be much more cautious in prescribing these medications. Furthermore, enhanced border enforcement may have contributed to a reduction in the supply of illicit drugs, especially fentanyl, entering the United States.”

 Is there anything else that must be done to ensure that overdose rates continue to fall?
“Since opioid overdose remains a major public health issue, it’s essential to continue advocating for broader and more affordable access to Narcan. Education about the dangers of drug use should begin as early as possible — ideally before adolescence, a critical developmental stage when many begin experimenting with substances. As with many health issues, prevention is key. Efforts to reduce the availability of dangerous drugs — such as enhanced border enforcement targeting fentanyl and cocaine, along with domestic drug control — are also vital. Additionally, health care providers must remain vigilant in prescribing opioids, ensuring they are used only when truly necessary and in appropriate quantities.”

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