Illinois reports 8.3% drop in overdose deaths, first decline in five years

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — Overdose drug deaths in Illinois have declined by 8.3% according to new data released by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

According to a 2023 study, the IPDH said opioid overdoses in the state have dropped 9.7%, compared to 3% nationally.

The total number of overdose deaths recorded in 2023 was 3,502, a decline of 317 from the prior year.

“I am encouraged by the reduction in overdose deaths here in Illinois,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra.  “This decrease is a testament to the leadership of Governor Pritzker and the joint and sustained effort from our communities, advocates, and family members to address this public health crisis.  However, much more work needs to be done.”

The IDPH said 2023’s data represented the first reduction in drug overdose deaths in Illinois since 2018.

Deaths involving heroin and natural and semisynthetic opioids decreased by 21.2% and 17.4%, respectively in 2023. One drug category that saw a notable increase in deaths in 2023 was xylazine, a non-opioid sedative that is used as an adulterant. The report indicates deaths involving xylazine were up 6.4% to 249.

State officials cited several likely factors for the decline, including the availability of naloxone (Narcan) throughout the state, which can reverse opioid overdoses.