Oregon is seeing real progress in the fight against drug overdoses. New data from Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and federal partners show that overdose deaths have gone down for the second year in a row. While the work isn’t over, these numbers are a strong sign that our communities’ efforts are making a real difference.
A downward trend
In 2025, Oregon saw about 1,100 deaths from overdoses. That number may adjust as more reports are finalized, but it continues the downward trend. In 2024, the state recorded 1,544 overdose deaths, down from 1,833 in 2023. This is the first time this number has dropped year over year since 2016—an important milestone for everyone working to save lives.
Governor Tina Kotek said this progress shows what’s possible when people and organizations team up. According to her, strong partnerships between state agencies, treatment providers, local leaders and law enforcement are helping more people living in Oregon get the support they need. “We have to stay on track. Together, we can save the lives of our neighbors, friends, and family members,” she said.
John Mcllveen, Ph.D., Oregon’s State Opioid Treatment Authority, noted that while every loss is tragic, Oregon’s investments in prevention, treatment and harm reduction are working. He pointed out that communities that have historically been underserved still need special attention, but collaboration is helping save lives across the state.
Fentanyl and methamphetamine continue to be involved in more than 90 percent of overdose deaths, which means there is still more work ahead. But progress so far shows that Oregon’s approach is making an impact.
In 2024, hospitals recorded more than 4,000 overdose-related stays and more than 10,000 emergency room visits. Many additional overdoses were reversed thanks to naloxone, a lifesaving medication, and the people in our communities who have learned how to administer it.
More than 60 percent of deaths from overdose in 2024 involved multiple substances, most often a combination of fentanyl and methamphetamine. This makes Oregon’s response even more important. The state is investing in prevention, treatment, recovery services and community outreach. This approach helps people, no matter where they live or how much they can pay.
Investments helping Oregon make progress include:
- Funding the Save Lives Oregon Harm Reduction Clearinghouse, which works with community groups to support people using fentanyl and other drugs.
- Expanded opioid treatment programs across the state.
- Behavioral Health Regional Networks (BHRNs) available in every county, offering services to anyone who needs them.
- Statewide prevention programs and peer support services.
Tom Jeanne, M.D., MPH, OHA’s deputy state health officer, said the progress is encouraging and shows what can happen when Oregon stays committed. To keep overdose deaths going down, continued investment and community partnership are essential.
How you can help save lives in your community:
- Learn how to use naloxone by watching the Save Lives Oregon training video.
- Connect with your regional overdose prevention coordinator to learn about resources in your area.
- Find more information about overdose prevention on OHA’s website.