Drug-related deaths dropped 32% in 2024 across New York state compared to 2023, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The latest CDC findings show an estimated 4,567 New Yorkers died of a drug overdose in 2024, compared to 6,688 in 2023, with approximately 77% of those deaths involving an opioid, such as heroin or fentanyl. 

“These numbers are further validation of our commitment to investing in real solutions which address the negative impacts of the opioid epidemic,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “We continue to expand and enhance services across the state, ensuring New Yorkers in need can access these lifesaving resources.” 

To date, more than 13.2 million fentanyl test strips, 10 million xylazine test strips and 296,000 naloxone kits have been ordered through the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports online portal. The state Department of Health has distributed more than 537,600 naloxone kits from January 2024 to April 2025.

“These numbers show that our hard work, and innovative approaches to establishing services are making a difference across the state. New York has one of the strongest systems of addiction care in the nation, and we look forward to seeing further reductions in overdose deaths as we continue to strengthen our continuum of prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery services,” OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham added.

Anyone in need of help can call the New York state HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or by texting HOPENY (Short Code 467369). Available addiction treatment can be found on the NYS OASAS website.

“The data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are encouraging. It’s a testament to the countless communities, organizations and programs that are focused on reducing drug overdoses and the harmful impacts of substance use disorder. While this is good news and shows we are moving in the right direction, there’s still more work to do to prevent overdose deaths. It’s vital we continue to identify communities that are not experiencing these declines equally. There’s still much to do and we remain committed to our central goal of preventing all drug overdoses in New York State and achieving an overdose free generation,” New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said.