overdose deaths CDC fentanyl.

U.S. overdose deaths fell through the most of last year, suggesting a lasting improvement in an epidemic that had been worsening for decades. Overdose deaths have been falling for more than two years now in the most extended drop in decades, the new data indicates. However, the decline also shows signs of leveling off a bit. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention posted the data Wednesday. It shows that an estimated 73,000 people died from overdoses in the 12-month period that ended August 2025, down about 21% from the previous 12-month period. Experts are cautiously optimistic the trend will last.