Drug Overdose Deaths Reach Record-Breaking Levels in 2021

The United States is in the midst of a fentanyl crisis. Drug overdose deaths reached record-breaking levels in 2021, with a surge in deaths involving fentanyl and methamphetamine. The nation saw a 15 percent increase in deaths from overdoses overall. This is the latest evidence that the opioid epidemic is evolving, with fentanyl now involved in more than half of all drug overdose deaths. After a catastrophic increase in 2020, deaths from drug overdoses rose again to record-breaking levels in 2021. This is an unrelenting crisis that has consumed federal and state drug policy officials. The number of drug overdose deaths has increased every year since the 1970s, with the exception of 2018. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin. It is often mixed with other drugs, which increases the risk of overdose. Fentanyl overdoses are on the rise because the drug is cheaper and easier to obtain than other opioids. The increase in deaths from fentanyl and methamphetamine is especially concerning because these drugs are highly addictive and have a high potential for abuse. Treatment options are available for those struggling with addiction, but they must be accessed in order to be effective. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please seek help as soon as possible.