As the overdose death rate declines nationally, Colorado’s continues to rise

Kim Posey
·1 min read

DENVER (KDVR) — For the first time in five years, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the number of drug overdose deaths has dropped nationally.

But here in Colorado, the number continues to rise. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment said it recorded 1,822 drug overdose deaths in 2023.

“Colorado saw only a slight increase in total drug overdose death rates from 2021-2023, part of which can be explained by the increase in the state’s population in 2023. However, the proportion of drug overdose deaths specifically involving fentanyl has increased (from 49% in 2021 to 59% in 2023),” a CDPHE spokesperson said.

Weld County Drug Task Force reports finding ‘tranq’ in counterfeit fentanyl pills

Administrators at drug treatment centers say fentanyl and other synthetic drugs are still a huge problem in Colorado.

Steve Carleton is the chief clinical officer for Porch Light Health, a system that offers addiction treatment to 10,000 patients each month. He said one thing that is helping prevent even more overdose deaths is that naloxone, the overdose reversal drug also known by the brand name Narcan, is now available over the counter.

“Educating the public on naloxone is really important and has led to lots of lives being saved. This number would be higher if it weren’t for those efforts,” he said.

But to prevent future deaths, he wants to expand access to care and let people know they can get help fighting addiction.

“We know that only 10% of people with substance use disorder feel comfortable going into care,” he said.

Colorado second in US for teen overdose death rates: study

Patients can get medications to help reduce cravings and withdrawals.

“Getting on that medication, we know that’s the most effective form of treatment, in particular for opioid use disorder,” Carleton said.

Front Range Clinic can be reached for help at 866-628-7828.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.