Overdose deaths fall sharply in US and abroad, report links decline to naloxone and harm-reduction measures

A new report highlights a sudden drop in drug overdose deaths after years of consistently high numbers in the United States.

The data show that U.S. deaths fell 27% in 2024 and preliminary figures for 2025 suggest a further decline, while Scotland and Canada reported 13% and 9% reductions respectively in 2024.

Epidemiologist Brandon Marshall called the trend unprecedented, but both he and senior research associate Evan Gumas caution that the crisis is far from over and the exact drivers remain unclear, though expanded naloxone availability and harm-reduction programs are likely contributors.