Minnesota Sees Slight Decrease in Overdose Deaths

(KNSI) — Preliminary data shows a modest decline in overall drug overdose deaths in Minnesota from 2022 to 2023. This marks the first such decrease since 2018.

Overall deaths decreased by 8% from 1,384 to 1,274. In greater Minnesota, the number went down by 21% from 482 to 381. Nonfatal overdoses, though, went up by 11% from 4,328 to 4,819.

Factors contributing to the decline include wider access to naloxone, also known as Narcan, which is a medication that can stop the effects of an overdose within moments. Minnesota has also put into place various programs to address the overdose crisis, including expanded medication for opioid use disorder and peer recovery support systems.

State officials say there are still ongoing challenges to the war on drugs including the rising death toll from substances like methamphetamine and cocaine.

The state has directed funding to address substance use and overdoses and is working with various partners, including tribal nations, local health organizations, and federal agencies, to combat the overdose crisis.

Read the full report here.

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