Opioid and other drug overdose deaths are on the decline for the first time in decades, though rates vary widely by state, according to an analysis from KFF. [Beckers Health]

Nationwide, opioid overdose deaths declined by 10% in the second half of 2023 compared to the second half of 2022. Provisional data from the CDC shows this trend continuing into 2024. 

Year-over-year, opioid overdose deaths declined in three-quarters of states, with North Carolina recording a 41% decline from the second half of 2022 to 2023. 

In a few states, opioid death rates increased. In Alaska, the number of opioid overdose deaths increased by 58% year-over-year. 

Here are the states with the largest declines and increases in opioid-related deaths in the second half of 2023: 

Largest declines: 

• North Carolina: -41% 
• Kansas: -30% 
• Maine: -29% 
• Indiana: -23% 
• Pennsylvania: -20% 
• Ohio: - 20% 
• Louisiana: -20% 
• Connecticut: -19% 
• Arkansas: -19% 
• Missouri: -17% 

Largest increases: 

• Alaska: 58% 
• Oregon: 36% 
• Nevada: 35% 
• Washington: 22% 
• Iowa: 17% 
• Utah: 12% 
• Montana: 9% 
• Colorado: 7% 
• Rhode Island: 7% 
• Alaska: 1% 

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