Opioid-Related Overdose Deaths Increased from 2010 to 2013 in New York City, Report Indicates

From 2010 to 2013, the rate of unintentional drug overdose deaths increased by 41% in New York City, and in 2013 77% of overdose deaths involved an opioid, a new report from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (Department) indicates. Further, the rate of overdose deaths involving opioid analgesics increased by 256% from 2000 to 2013, and benzodiazepines were found to be involved in 60% of overdose deaths involving opioid analgesics in 2013. The study is based on information gathered through review of data from the Department’s Bureau of Vital Statistics and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for 2000-2013. The Department has undertaken a number of prevention and treatment activities to help prevent overdose, including conducting public awareness campaigns and providing naloxone training to responders.