Moore: MD overdose deaths fall for 4th straight year

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Citing Maryland’s Overdose Data Dashboard‘s latest provisional data indicating that drug overdose deaths dropped by 26 percent in 2025, Gov. Wes Moore‘s office said the reduction marked the fourth consecutive year of reported decreases in the state. 

Last year, Maryland experienced 1,315 overdose deaths — the lowest level seen in the last decade, according to the governor’s office, adding that the figure is a 53 percent decrease from the state’s historic high of 2,800 in 2021.

All major drug categories and demographic groups saw decreases, according to a release. Dashboard data shows fentanyl-related overdose deaths decreased by 31 percent, falling from 1,314 in 2024 to 906 in 2025. 

“Maryland continues to show that our partnerships with local communities are invaluable in our efforts to reduce overdoses across the state,” Moore said. 

“We have more work to do—but by working together, we will continue to fight for those seeking recovery.”

Fatal overdoses decreased by 31 percent among non-Hispanic Black Marylanders and by 22 percent among non-Hispanic whites, Moore’s office said. 

According to the data, non-Hispanic Black men aged 55 and over are the most impacted demographic group in terms of population size with regard to overdose deaths – which fell to 98.6 per 100,000 individuals from 138.1 in 2024.

“While we continue to lose too many of our loved ones, our progress to reduce overdoses and save lives is significant, and we owe a debt of gratitude to everyone who shows up every day to meet people where they are and make connections to substance use care,” Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller said.

“This work starts at the ground level, with dedicated partners continuing their efforts to foster relationships and make connections to services that protect the health and well-being of those with substance use disorders.”

The Maryland Overdose Response Advisory Council, along with overdose response programs, aim to prioritize community engagement to ensure all communities across the state are connected to care. Community engagement forums are designed to introduce strategies for overdose reduction, according to a release.

Dashboard data also revealed Maryland’s overdose response programs distributed a record number 440,000 doses of naloxone in 2025. The medication is administered to reverse the effects of opioid overdoses.