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The opioid epidemic, a public health crisis that emerged in the late 1990s and has since escalated dramatically, can be attributed to a complex interplay of factors, ranging from medical practices to socioeconomic conditions. Examining key statistics helps shed light on the multifaceted nature of the crisis.

One major contributor to the opioid epidemic is the over prescription of opioid painkillers. In the 1990s, pharmaceutical companies aggressively marketed prescription opioids as safe and effective for managing pain. Consequently, between 1999 and 2010, the number of opioid prescriptions in the United States tripled. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the amount of prescription opioids sold per capita in 2018 was more than four times higher than in 1999.

As prescription opioids became more widely available, a significant number of individuals developed opioid dependencies. When access to prescription opioids was restricted due to increased awareness of their addictive nature, many turned to heroin as a cheaper and more accessible alternative. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that nearly 80% of heroin users first misused prescription opioids.

The opioid crisis has taken a deadlier turn with the introduction of synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), fentanyl is approximately 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl has been a key driver in the surge of overdose deaths. In 2019, nearly 50,000 opioid-related overdose deaths involved synthetic opioids, excluding methadone, according to the CDC.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that nearly 80% of heroin users first misused prescription opioids.

Socioeconomic factors play a role in the opioid epidemic. Regions with economic distress and high unemployment rates have witnessed a disproportionate impact. According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, each percentage point increase in the unemployment rate is associated with a 3.6% increase in opioid overdose deaths.

Insufficient access to effective addiction treatment has been a significant challenge in addressing the opioid epidemic. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), only about 1 in 10 people with a substance use disorder receives treatment. Barriers to treatment, including stigma, lack of insurance coverage, and limited treatment facilities, contribute to the ongoing crisis.

The implementation and effectiveness of Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs vary across states. PDMPs are designed to track and monitor the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances. States with robust PDMPs have shown success in reducing opioid prescriptions and identifying potential cases of misuse. However, the adoption and utilization of these programs have not been uniform nationwide, impacting their overall impact on curbing the epidemic.

Communities grappling with the opioid overdose epidemic face significant challenges in terms of prevention, treatment, and support services. The widespread availability of potent synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, has intensified the crisis, making overdoses more lethal and difficult to manage. Efforts to combat the epidemic require a multifaceted approach, including increased access to evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders, improved education on the risks of opioid use, and enhanced monitoring of prescription practices within the healthcare system. Additionally, harm reduction strategies, such as the distribution of naloxone (an opioid overdose reversal medication) and the establishment of supervised consumption sites, aim to save lives and provide individuals with a pathway to recovery. The opioid overdose epidemic underscores the importance of a comprehensive and compassionate response from healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to address the underlying causes and mitigate the devastating impact on individuals and society.

The opioid epidemic is a multifaceted crisis driven by a combination of over prescription, the transition to illicit substances, the rise of synthetic opioids, socioeconomic factors, limited access to treatment, and varying effectiveness of regulatory measures. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing comprehensive strategies to address and mitigate the impact of the opioid epidemic on individuals, families, and communities.

Combating the Opioid Overdose Epidemic

Narcan, or naloxone, is a life-saving medication used to rapidly reverse opioid overdoses. Opioids, including prescription painkillers, heroin, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl, can depress the respiratory system, leading to slowed or stopped breathing during an overdose. Narcan works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids attach to, effectively displacing the opioids and temporarily reversing their effects. This mechanism of action makes naloxone a critical tool in emergency situations, allowing individuals experiencing an overdose to regain normal respiratory function and providing a window of time for them to receive further medical attention.

Narcan is administered through various routes, including intramuscular injection, intranasal spray, and auto-injectors, making it accessible for use by both medical professionals and bystanders. The widespread distribution and training on naloxone use have been instrumental in empowering communities to respond effectively to opioid overdoses. Many first responders, law enforcement agencies, and healthcare providers now carry naloxone as part of their standard emergency response kits. Additionally, community-based programs and harm reduction initiatives distribute naloxone kits to individuals at risk of overdose and their loved ones, further increasing its availability.

The impact of Narcan in preventing opioid overdose deaths is substantial. Its rapid and effective reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression has saved countless lives, providing individuals with a second chance at recovery. The accessibility and ease of use of naloxone contribute to its effectiveness in a variety of settings, from homes to public spaces. However, it’s crucial to recognize that while naloxone is a critical tool in emergency response, comprehensive efforts to address the root causes of opioid addiction, improve access to treatment, and reduce the stigma surrounding substance use are essential components of a holistic approach to tackling the opioid epidemic.

Find an Opiate Detox in Ohio

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