Overdose Deaths are Declining: Dr. Nabarun Dasgupta Explains Why

Video April 8, 2025

Overdose deaths in the United States are declining, and we all want to know why. Dr. Nabarun Dasgupta, a senior scientist at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, has been studying drug overdose deaths for over 20 years.

He spoke with us about what he sees behind recent overdose declines, including harm reduction, expanded access to naloxone, medications for opioid use disorder, and effective treatment.

Watch the playlist or click on any of the questions below to hear more from Dr. Dasgupta about what we can learn from declining overdose death rates.

What are some potential factors contributing to the overdose death drop, and what lessons can we take to reduce overdose deaths further?

What are medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)? How are they helping? What are barriers to people getting them?

Why are overdose rates still increasing in some communities over others, despite the overall statistical decrease in deaths?

We all want overdose rates to continue declining. Share this page and playlist to spread awareness of the drug policy changes we need to prevent overdose deaths.

A young woman holds a sign that says "End the Drug War."

Overdose Deaths are Declining: Dr. Nabarun Dasgupta Explains Why

What are some potential factors contributing to the overdose death drop, and what lessons can we take to reduce overdose deaths further?

What are medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)? How are they helping? What are barriers to people getting them?

Why are overdose rates still increasing in some communities over others, despite the overall statistical decrease in deaths?

Sign up for updates from DPA.

Honor those we have lost to overdose.

Tell Trump, Congress: Prioritize Health Solutions

As parents and family members who have lost loved ones to overdose, we know saving lives requires health solutions, not punishment. Sign our letter urging lawmakers to embrace lifesaving health responses to the overdose crisis.

As parents and family members who have lost loved ones to overdose, we know saving lives requires health solutions, not punishment.

Sign our letter urging lawmakers to embrace lifesaving health responses to the overdose crisis.