As opioids overdose deaths keep rising, report urges lawmakers to develop new approaches

Drug overdose rates in the U.S. have risen fivefold in the past two decades, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

By: - March 17, 2023 10:57 am
In this photo illustration, a package of NARCAN (Naloxone) nasal spray sits on the counter at a Walgreens pharmacy, Aug. 9, 2017 in New York City. Starting on Wednesday, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Monday that no-cost or low cost Naloxone (NARCAN), a drug that can help reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, will be available at all pharmacies across New York state. (Photo Illustration by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

In this photo illustration, a package of NARCAN (Naloxone) nasal spray sits on the counter at a Walgreens pharmacy, August 9, 2017 in New York City. Starting on Wednesday, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Monday that no-cost or low cost Naloxone (NARCAN), a drug that can help reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, will be available at all pharmacies across New York state. (Photo Illustration by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON — Lawmakers should view America’s staggering opioid crisis, including the rise of illicit fentanyl, through an “ecosystems” approach, according to a massive, new report by the RAND Corporation .

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Ashley Murray
Ashley Murray

Ashley Murray covers the nation’s capital as a senior reporter for States Newsroom. Her coverage areas include domestic policy and appropriations.

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