Opioid Statistics 2024 By Risks, Addiction and Overdose

Introduction

Opioid Statistics: Opioids are a class of drugs that bind to opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system to relieve pain. But they also pose significant risks, including addiction and overdose.

They are categorized into natural opioids (like morphine), semi-synthetic opioids (such as oxycodone), and synthetic opioids (including fentanyl).

While they are effective for managing severe pain and are used in anesthesia. Their misuse has led to a major public health crisis characterized by high addiction rates and overdose deaths.

Efforts to address this crisis involve stricter prescription guidelines, enhanced addiction treatment, and public health initiatives aimed at reducing misuse and improving safety.

Editor’s Choice

• The global opioids market revenue was valued at USD 22.2 billion in 2023.
• In 2033, the global opioids market is projected to generate USD 29.5 billion. With oxycodone reaching USD 10.92 billion, codeine USD 8.38 billion, morphine USD 4.43 billion, fentanyl USD 3.25 billion, and other ablation technologies growing to USD 2.54 billion.
• The market share of opioids by route of administration is primarily dominated by oral administration, which accounts for 42% of the total market.
• By 2020, global opium production was recorded at 7,410 metric tons, reflecting a slight decline from the previous two years.
• In 2020, Afghanistan was the leading country for opium poppy cultivation. With a total cultivated area of 224,000 hectares dedicated to the crop.
• In 2018 and 2024, public opinion on increased funding for research on opioid addiction in the U.S. saw a shift toward stronger support. In 2018, 31% of respondents strongly supported increased funding, while this figure rose to 42% by 2024.
• In the U.S., opioid regulation is primarily managed through federal laws like the Controlled Substances Act. Which sets strict guidelines for the manufacturing, distribution, and use of opioids.

Opioids Market Overview

Global Opioids Market Size Statistics

• The global opioids market revenue was valued at USD 22.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to experience consistent growth over the next decade at a CAGR of 2.9 %.  
• By 2024, the market is expected to reach USD 22.8 billion. With further increases to USD 23.5 billion in 2025 and USD 24.9 billion in 2026.
• This upward trend continues with projected revenues of USD 25.6 billion in 2027 and USD 26.4 billion in 2028.
• By 2029, the market is forecasted to grow to USD 27.1 billion, stabilizing at this value in 2030.
• In subsequent years, the market is expected to resume growth. Reaching USD 27.9 billion in 2031, USD 28.7 billion in 2032, and USD 29.5 billion by 2033.
• This steady increase reflects the ongoing demand and usage of opioid-based medications globally.

(Source: market.us)

Global Opioid Market Size – By Product Type Statistics

• The global opioids market is expected to demonstrate steady growth from 2023 to 2033. Driven by increasing demand for key opioid products such as oxycodone, codeine, morphine, fentanyl, and other ablation technologies.
• In 2023, the total market revenue was USD 22.2 billion, with oxycodone accounting for USD 8.21 billion, codeine for USD 6.30 billion, morphine for USD 3.33 billion, fentanyl for USD 2.44 billion, and other ablation technologies for USD 1.91 billion.
• By 2024, the market is projected to grow to USD 22.8 billion. With oxycodone increasing to USD 8.44 billion, codeine to USD 6.48 billion, and other products experiencing similar growth patterns.
• The upward trend continues through the subsequent years, with the market reaching USD 24.9 billion by 2026. With notable growth in oxycodone (USD 9.21 billion) and codeine (USD 7.07 billion).
• In 2027, the market is projected to grow to USD 25.6 billion, with increases across all product types.
• By 2031, the total revenue is expected to reach USD 27.9 billion, and in 2033, the global opioids market is projected to generate USD 29.5 billion. With oxycodone reaching USD 10.92 billion, codeine USD 8.38 billion, morphine USD 4.43 billion, fentanyl USD 3.25 billion, and other ablation technologies growing to USD 2.54 billion.
• This continuous growth reflects the persistent demand for opioid products and advancements in ablation technologies within the healthcare sector.

(Source: market.us)

Opioid Market Share – By Route of Administration Statistics

• The market share of opioids by route of administration is primarily dominated by oral administration, which accounts for 42% of the total market.
• Injectable opioids hold a significant portion as well, representing 35% of the market share.
• Other methods of administration, such as transdermal patches or intranasal forms, constitute the remaining 18%.
• This distribution reflects the preference for oral and injectable forms, driven by ease of use and medical application.
• At the same time, alternative routes maintain a smaller yet essential role in certain clinical situations.

(Source: market.us)

Global Opioid Use Disorder Market Size Statistics

• The global opioid use disorder market was valued at USD 3.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow significantly over the coming years, reaching an estimated USD 5.8 billion by 2030.
• This substantial growth reflects increasing awareness and treatment efforts for opioid use disorder worldwide. Driven by the rising prevalence of opioid addiction and the expanding availability of treatment options.

(Source: market.us)

Opioid Production Statistics

Production of Opium Worldwide

• The potential global production of opium fluctuated significantly between 2002 and 2020.
• In 2002, the estimated production was 4,520 metric tons. Which saw a gradual increase over the following years, reaching 4,850 metric tons in 2004.
• After a slight decline to 4,620 metric tons in 2005, production surged to 8,090 metric tons by 2007, marking the highest level in that decade.
• Although production decreased to 4,950 metric tons in 2009, it rebounded to 6,980 metric tons in 2011.
• In subsequent years, production levels varied, with notable highs of 7,740 metric tons in 2014 and 10,240 metric tons in 2017, representing the peak during this period.
• After 2017, production stabilized, with the figures hovering around 7,600 metric tons in 2018 and 2019.
• By 2020, global opium production was recorded at 7,410 metric tons, reflecting a slight decline from the previous two years.
• This data highlights the volatile nature of global opium production. Influenced by various factors such as geopolitical, economic, and environmental conditions.

(Source: Statista)

Main Countries for Opium Cultivation

• In 2020, Afghanistan was the leading country for opium poppy cultivation. With a total cultivated area of 224,000 hectares dedicated to the crop.
• Myanmar followed with a significantly smaller area of 29,500 hectares.
• Other countries collectively contributed to 40,855 hectares of opium poppy cultivation.
• This distribution highlights Afghanistan’s dominant role in global opium production, with Myanmar and other regions contributing to a lesser extent.

(Source: Statista)

Global Production Quantity of Opium

• In 2017, Afghanistan was the largest producer of opium globally, with an estimated production volume of 9,000 tons.
• Mexico ranked second, contributing 586 tons, followed closely by Myanmar with 550 tons.
• Colombia, while a smaller player in opium production, produced an estimated 7 tons.
• This data underscores Afghanistan’s dominant position in the global opium production landscape, with other countries contributing significantly smaller quantities.

(Source: Statista)

Production of Cocaine

• The global production of cocaine experienced significant fluctuations between 1994 and 2021.
• In 1994, production was estimated at 891 metric tons and gradually increased, reaching 950 metric tons by 1996.
• A period of decline followed, with production dropping to 825 metric tons in 1998 before rebounding to 925 metric tons in 1999.
• The early 2000s saw a relatively stable period, with production hovering between 800 and 879 metric tons until 2003.
• From 2004 onwards, production levels began to rise more notably. Reaching 1,048 metric tons in 2004, peaking at 1,317 metric tons in 2007.
• Following this peak, there were some fluctuations, with production decreasing to 997 metric tons in 2012 and then increasing again in the following years.
• By 2016, global cocaine production had surged to 1,586 metric tons, and the upward trend continued, reaching 1,976 metric tons in 2017.
• In the final years of the dataset, global cocaine production reached unprecedented levels. With 1,982 metric tons in 2020 and a record 2,304 metric tons in 2021.
• This data reflects the overall growth in global cocaine production, particularly in the 2010s. Driven by various economic and geopolitical factors contributing to the increase in cultivation and distribution.

(Source: Statista)

Production of Heroin

• Global heroin production has fluctuated significantly between 2004 and 2022.
• In 2004, production was recorded at 529 metric tons, followed by a decline to 472 metric tons in 2005.
• By 2007, production surged to 686 metric tons, marking one of the highest points during this period.
• In 2008, heroin production remained substantial at 600 metric tons, but by 2009, it dropped sharply to 427 metric tons.
• The years following saw continued fluctuations, with production dipping to 383 metric tons in 2010 and 377 metric tons in 2012 before rebounding to 555 metric tons in 2013.
• Production remained relatively stable through 2014 but sharply declined in 2015 to 327 metric tons, the lowest in this period.
• After that, heroin production experienced a gradual recovery, reaching 692 metric tons in 2017.
• From 2018 onwards, production saw a decline, with 487 metric tons in 2018, 474 metric tons in 2019, and 454 metric tons in 2020.
• However, production began to increase again, reaching 495 metric tons in 2021 and 509 metric tons in 2022.
• These variations highlight the instability of global heroin production, influenced by various economic, agricultural, and geopolitical factors over the years.

(Source: Statista)

Opioid Manufacturing Statistics

Global Manufacturing of Synthetic Opioid Statistics

• From 2013 to 2022, the global manufacture of synthetic opioids experienced notable fluctuations across different types, measured in kilograms.
• Methadone production saw considerable variation, starting at 41,821 kilograms in 2013. Decreasing to 30,842 kilograms in 2014, and rising again to peak at 46,053 kilograms in 2021.
• By 2022, methadone production slightly declined to 41,643 kilograms.
• Dextropropoxyphene production, significant in 2013 at 49,174 kilograms, saw a dramatic decrease. Almost ceasing after 2014, with only 1 kilogram produced in 2016 and 131 kilograms in 2022.
• Diphenoxylate production fluctuated moderately, starting at 14,140 kilograms in 2013 and decreasing to 4,529 kilograms by 2021. By 2022, production slightly increased to 4,490 kilograms.
• Pethidine production also experienced substantial variation. Beginning at 5,773 kilograms in 2013, peaking at 7,353 kilograms in 2014, and progressively decreasing to 2,565 kilograms by 2022.
• These trends reflect the global shifts in demand and production capacity for various synthetic opioids during this period.

(Source: Statista)

Manufacturing of Opium Alkaloids and Their Derivatives

• Between 2013 and 2022, the manufacture of opium alkaloids and their derivatives in the U.S. exhibited considerable variation across different substances. 
• Oxycodone production peaked in 2013 at 138,071 kilograms but steadily declined over the years, reaching 40,744 kilograms by 2022.
• Thebaine production followed a similar pattern, starting at 68,937 kilograms in 2013. Peaking at 72,518 kilograms in 2016, and then falling to 25,034 kilograms by 2022.
• Hydrocodone production started at 46,153 kilograms in 2013, then experienced a significant drop, stabilizing at 17,039 kilograms in 2022.
• Codeine production fluctuated but followed a general downward trend from 49,382 kilograms in 2013 to 10,959 kilograms in 2022.
• Morphine production also saw a sharp decline, starting at 88,235 kilograms in 2013 and decreasing to 9,520 kilograms by 2022.
• Buprenorphine production increased from 1,179 kilograms in 2013 to 3,165 kilograms by 2022, showing a rise in demand for this substance.
• Meanwhile, dihydro-codeine production was minimal throughout the period. Peaking at 158 kilograms in 2016 before dropping to negligible levels by 2022.
• Overall, the data reflects a broad decline in the production of many key opium alkaloids and derivatives over the decade. Except for slight increases in substances like buprenorphine.

(Source: Statista)

Manufacturing of Other Opium Alkaloid Derivatives Worldwide

• Between 2017 and 2022, the global manufacture of various opium alkaloid derivatives such as heroin, hydromorphone, and oxymorphone saw significant changes.
• Heroin production started at 1,108 kilograms in 2017, peaked at 1,342 kilograms in 2018, and then steadily declined to 905 kilograms by 2022.
• Hydromorphone production fluctuated more sharply, beginning at 6,391 kilograms in 2017, and decreasing to 2,721 kilograms by 2019. But then rebounded to 7,928 kilograms in 2020 before stabilizing at 4,892 kilograms in 2022.
• Oxymorphone production experienced the most dramatic fluctuations. In 2017, it was at 16,396 kilograms, rising sharply to 29,225 kilograms in 2019 and peaking at 36,227 kilograms in 2021. However, by 2022, oxymorphone production had decreased to 25,528 kilograms.
• These trends highlight both the volatility and the changes in demand for these specific opium derivatives over the six years.

(Source: Statista)

Opioid Consumption Statistics

Opioid Users Worldwide Statistics

• Between 2015 and 2021, the global number of opioid users experienced significant fluctuations across different regions.
• In 2015, the worldwide number of opioid users was estimated at 42.69 million, with Asia accounting for 17.34 million users, the Americas for 16.23 million, and Europe for 4.85 million.
• By 2016, the global total increased to 44.54 million, with notable growth in the Americas. Which reached 17.1 million users, while Asia had 19.34 million users.
• In 2017, the worldwide total rose further to 60.18 million. With Asia accounting for 31.91 million users and Africa experiencing a marked increase to 7.39 million users.
• By 2018, the global total had surged to 76.43 million, with Asia’s opioid user population rising significantly to 44.67 million and Africa’s increasing to 11.8 million.
• The peak in opioid use occurred in 2019, with 78.26 million users worldwide, of which 47.85 million were in Asia and 13.73 million in the Americas. However, the global total decreased in the following years, dropping to 61.28 million in 2020 and further to 60 million in 2021.
• By 2021, Asia still accounted for the majority of opioid users at 34.29 million. While the Americas had 11.94 million users, and Africa had 9.67 million.
• These figures illustrate regional disparities in opioid use and the rising trend of opioid users globally through the mid-2010s, followed by a stabilization in the early 2020s.

(Source: Statista)

Consumption of Major Synthetic Opioid Worldwide Statistics

• From 2014 to 2022, the global consumption of major synthetic opioids such as dextropropoxyphene, diphenoxylate, methadone, pethidine, and tilidine varied considerably.
• Dextropropoxyphene consumption decreased drastically. Starting at 851 kilograms in 2014 and falling almost entirely to just 1 kilogram by 2022.
• Diphenoxylate consumption fluctuated, peaking at 7,581 kilograms in 2018 before declining to 4,692 kilograms in 2022.
• Methadone consumption, on the other hand, increased significantly. Starting at 33,098 kilograms in 2014 and reaching its highest level of 48,767 kilograms in 2020 before stabilizing at 46,634 kilograms in 2022.
• Pethidine consumption generally declined, beginning at 5,780 kilograms in 2014 and falling to 2,703 kilograms by 2022.
• In contrast, tilidine consumption saw an upward trend. Rising from 25,856 kilograms in 2014 to a high of 46,373 kilograms in 2018 and slightly tapering off to 39,168 kilograms in 2022.
• These trends indicate changing global demand for synthetic opioids, with notable increases in methadone and tilidine. While other opioids saw reduced consumption over the same period.

(Source: Statista)

Morphine Consumption

• From 2018 to 2022, the global distribution of morphine consumption varied across regions.
• Europe consistently held a substantial share of morphine consumption, starting at 39.50% in 2018, dropping to 32.30% in 2019, and then stabilizing at around 39.50% by 2022.
• The United States, which initially accounted for 39.30% in 2018. Saw a peak in 2019 at 47.60% but experienced a steady decline, reaching 33.10% by 2022.
• Canada’s share remained relatively stable, beginning at 5.10% in 2018 and rising to 6.60% by 2022.
• Australia and New Zealand saw significant growth. Starting at 2.50% in 2018 and increasing to a peak of 7.90% in 2021 before stabilizing at 6.40% in 2022.
• Japan maintained a consistently low share, fluctuating between 0.40% and 0.70% over the five years.
• The “Other” regions include countries outside the main listed regions. Contributed between 12.80% and 16.90%, indicating a stable but slightly fluctuating portion of global morphine consumption.
• This data underscores the dominance of North America and Europe in morphine consumption. With gradual changes in other regions’ usage patterns.

(Source: Statista)

Fentanyl Consumption

• From 2018 to 2022, the global distribution of fentanyl consumption varied significantly across different countries.
• Germany consistently remained a major consumer, starting with 17.50% in 2018, peaking at 19.80% in 2020, and ending with 19% in 2022.
• Spain also showed a steady increase in consumption, rising from 8.20% in 2018 to 12.90% in 2022.
• The United States, which led with 20.80% in 2018, experienced fluctuations, peaking at 19.30% in 2021 before dropping to 12.80% by 2022.
• France exhibited a gradual rise in consumption, increasing from 4.50% in 2018 to 6.40% in 2022.
• Italy’s consumption followed a similar pattern, rising from 4.70% in 2018 to 6.30% in 2021 before declining to 4.60% in 2022.
• The Netherlands showed consistent growth, moving from 3.10% in 2018 to 4.20% by 2022.
• Belgium’s share also increased steadily, from 2% in 2018 to 3.40% in 2022.
• The United Kingdom saw a sharp decline in fentanyl consumption, starting at 15.60% in 2018, dropping to 2.50% in 2020, and recovering slightly to 3.30% in 2022.
• Canada experienced relatively stable levels of consumption. Hovering around 3% throughout the five years.
• These trends reflect both regional shifts and fluctuating demand for fentanyl in key markets over this period.

(Source: Statista)

Codeine Consumption

• From 2018 to 2022, the global distribution of codeine consumption exhibited significant variation across countries.
• India consistently led global consumption, starting at 20.10% in 2018 and steadily increasing to 26% by 2022.
• Iran also experienced substantial growth during this period, beginning at 9.70% in 2018, dropping to 5.50% in 2019, and then rising sharply to 15.80% by 2022.
• The United States saw relatively stable consumption. With a slight decline from 8.80% in 2018 to 6.80% in 2020 before rebounding to 7.60% in 2022.
• France showed a gradual decrease in its share of global codeine consumption. Starting at 9.00% in 2018 and falling to 6.10% by 2022.
• The United Kingdom exhibited more fluctuation, peaking at 14% in 2019 before declining to 5.30% by 2022.
• These trends reflect the shifting dynamics of codeine usage across different countries over the five years.

(Source: Statista)

Opioid Prescriptions Statistics

Number of Opioid Prescriptions Statistics

• From 2006 to 2022, the number of annual opioid prescriptions in the U.S. saw a notable rise, followed by a gradual decline.
• In 2006, there were 2.16 billion opioid prescriptions, increasing steadily to a peak of 2.55 billion prescriptions in 2012.
• However, after reaching this high, opioid prescriptions began to decrease.
• By 2013, prescriptions had dropped slightly to 2.47 billion, continuing to decline in subsequent years.
• In 2015, the number of prescriptions fell to 2.26 billion, and by 2017, it had dropped further to 1.91 billion.
• This downward trend persisted, with 1.53 billion prescriptions recorded in 2019.
• The decline continued through the 2020s, with 1.43 billion prescriptions in 2020, 1.39 billion in 2021, and 1.31 billion by 2022.
• This data reflects a significant reduction in opioid prescriptions over the years. Likely influenced by increasing awareness of the opioid crisis and regulatory measures aimed at curbing opioid use.

(Source: Statista)

Prescription Opioid Dispensing Rates Statistics

• From 2006 to 2022, the rate of prescription opioids dispensed in the United States. Measured per 100 persons, experienced a notable rise and subsequent decline.
• In 2006, the dispensing rate was 72.4 per 100 persons, increasing to 81.3 by 2012, the highest recorded during the period.
• Following this peak, the rate began to decline steadily. Dropping to 78.1 in 2013 and continuing downward to 70.6 by 2015.
• The reduction in opioid dispensing accelerated between 2016 and 2019, with the rate falling from 66.5 per 100 persons in 2016 to 46.8 by 2019.
• This trend persisted into the 2020s, with the dispensing rate dropping to 43.2 in 2020, 42 in 2021, and finally reaching 39.5 per 100 persons in 2022.
• This significant decline over the years reflects the impact of various efforts to reduce opioid prescribing in response to the ongoing opioid crisis in the U.S.

(Source: Statista)

E.D. Discharges with Opioid Prescriptions Statistics

• From 2006 to 2020, the percentage of emergency department visits by adults in the U.S. Where opioids were prescribed at discharge, showed a marked decline.
• In the period from 2006 to 2007, 19% of emergency visits resulted in opioid prescriptions, which increased to 20.50% in 2008–2009 and peaked at 21.50% in 2010–2011.
• However, this trend began to reverse, with the percentage falling back to 19% during 2012–2013.
• The decline continued in subsequent years, with 18.40% of visits involving opioid prescriptions in 2014–2015, followed by a more significant drop to 14.60% in 2016-2017.
• The downward trend persisted, with the percentage falling to 12.20% in 2017–2018 and reaching a low of 8.10% in 2019–2020.
• This decrease reflects ongoing efforts to reduce opioid prescribing in emergency departments as part of the broader strategy to combat the opioid crisis in the United States.

(Source: Statista)

Demographic Insights of Opioid Overdose Deaths Statistics

Opioid Statistics By Age

• In 2022, the distribution of opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. varied significantly across different age groups.
• The highest percentage of opioid overdose deaths occurred in individuals aged 35-44, accounting for 50% of the total deaths.
• This was followed by the 25-34 age group, which represented 43% of overdose deaths.
• The 45-54 age group also saw a substantial share, with 40% of deaths attributed to opioid overdose.
• In contrast, individuals aged 55 and older accounted for 18% of overdose deaths, while the 0-24 age group had the lowest percentage, representing 6% of the total opioid-related deaths.
• This distribution highlights the disproportionate impact of opioid overdoses on middle-aged adults in 2022.

(Source: Statista)

Opioid Statistics By Gender

• From 1999 to 2022, the U.S. death rate from prescription opioid overdose showed a marked increase for both genders, with males consistently having higher death rates than females.
• In 1999, the female death rate was 0.7 per 100,000 population, while the male death rate was 1.7.
• Over the next decade, the rates steadily rose, with females reaching 3.3 and males 5.5 by 2009.
• The rates continued to increase, peaking in 2016 when females had a death rate of 4.3 and males 6.2.
• After 2016, the death rates fluctuated, with females experiencing a slight decrease to 3.7 by 2018 and males to 5.3.
• However, both genders saw another increase in 2020, with females reaching 3.8 and males at 6.1, before stabilizing in 2021.
• By 2022, the death rate for females had declined to 3.3, while the male death rate dropped to 5.3.
• These trends reflect the ongoing opioid crisis, with males consistently at a higher risk of overdose death throughout the period.

(Source: Statista)

By Race/Ethnicity Statistics

• From 1999 to 2022, the U.S. death rate from prescription opioid overdose, measured per 100,000 population, varied significantly across different racial and ethnic groups.
• For White, non-Hispanic individuals, the death rate rose steadily from 1.3 in 1999 to a peak of 7 in 2016 before gradually declining to 5.5 in 2022.
• Among Black, non-Hispanic individuals, the rate started at 0.8 in 1999, increased to 3.5 in 2017, and reached a high of 4.9 in 2021 before slightly dropping to 4.5 in 2022.
• For Asian, non-Hispanic individuals, the death rate remained low throughout the period, fluctuating between 0.4 and 0.6, with no data recorded in earlier years.
• The Hispanic population’s death rate saw a modest rise, beginning at 1.6 in 1999 and peaking at 2.5 in both 2020 and 2021 before slightly declining to 2.3 in 2022.
• The American Indian/Alaskan Native, non-Hispanic group consistently had the highest death rates, starting at 1.3 in 1999, rising to 7.8 in 2009, and experiencing fluctuations over the years before reaching 5.3 in 2022.
• This data highlights the disparities in opioid overdose death rates across different racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. over the past two decades.

(Source: Statista)

Key Cost Metrics

Opioid Drug Cost for Patients Statistics

• From 2010 to 2017, the average cost of opioid drugs per patient in British Columbia exhibited varying trends across different medications.
• The cost of Tramadol remained relatively stable, starting at CAD 111 in 2010 and gradually decreasing to CAD 102 by 2017.
• Codeine costs saw a slight increase over the years, starting at CAD 21 in 2010 and rising to CAD 25 by 2017.
• Morphine experienced a significant decline in cost, from CAD 311 in 2010 to CAD 160 in 2016, before increasing slightly to CAD 177 in 2017.
• Hydrocodone costs fluctuated, starting at CAD 69 in 2010, dropping to CAD 52 in 2011, and peaking at CAD 93 in 2015, before settling at CAD 60 by 2017.
• Oxycodone showed a moderate decrease over the period, from CAD 245 in 2010 to CAD 188 in 2016, with a slight increase to CAD 192 in 2017.
• Hydromorphone costs increased substantially in 2011, from CAD 22 in 2010 to CAD 213, and then gradually decreased to CAD 164 by 2017. These trends reflect shifts in the pricing and utilization of different opioid drugs during this period.

(Source: Statista)

Charges in Emergency Department

• In 2015, the average charge per emergency department visit among U.S. adults aged 65 years and older varied significantly based on opioid status.
• For opioid-related visits, the average cost was USD 6,600, while non-opioid-related visits incurred a lower average cost of USD 4,900.
• This indicates that opioid-related emergency visits were associated with higher healthcare costs compared to non-opioid-related visits for older adults during that year.

(Source: Statista)

Risk Perceptions

• Between 2002 and 2022, the perception of great risk from heroin use in the United States, based on intake frequency, remained relatively stable with some fluctuations.
• In 2002, 82.4% of respondents believed there was a great risk from using heroin once or twice, and 93.9% perceived a great risk from using heroin once or twice a week.
• These percentages remained close over the next decade, with minor variations.
• By 2015, perceptions of risk increased, with 85.2% perceiving great risk from using heroin once or twice and 94.2% for weekly use.
• The peak perception of risk occurred in 2017 when 86.4% of people believed there was a great risk from using heroin once or twice and 94.5% for weekly use.
• After 2017, these numbers slightly declined, with 81.7% perceiving great risk from occasional use and 91.9% for weekly use in 2022.
• Despite minor fluctuations, the overall perception of heroin as a high-risk drug remained consistently high throughout the two decades.

(Source: Statista)

Key Investment and Funding Statistics

• From 2013 to 2025, the total substance abuse funding provided by the National Institutes for Health (NIH) has seen a steady increase.
• In 2013, the funding amounted to USD 1,525 million, which rose slightly to USD 1,564 million in 2014.
• After a small dip in 2015 to USD 1,549 million, the funding grew consistently, reaching USD 1,636 million in 2017.
• A significant increase occurred in 2018, with funding rising to USD 1,795 million, followed by a notable jump to USD 2,460 million in 2019.
• Though the funding slightly decreased to USD 2,293 million in 2020, it rebounded to USD 2,340 million in 2021 and further to USD 2,480 million in 2022.
• Projections for 2023 show an increase to USD 2,591 million, and the funding is expected to stabilize around USD 2,588 million in 2024 before reaching USD 2,626 million in 2025.
• This upward trend reflects the growing emphasis on addressing substance abuse through increased financial support.

Support/Opposition for Increased Funding for Research On Opioid Addiction Statistics

• In 2018 and 2024, public opinion on increased funding for research on opioid addiction in the U.S. saw a shift toward stronger support.
• In 2018, 31% of respondents strongly supported increased funding, while this figure rose to 42% by 2024.
• Similarly, those who somewhat supported funding grew from 33% in 2018 to 38% in 2024.
• Opposition to funding decreased during this period, with the percentage of those somewhat opposing dropping from 12% to 8% and those strongly opposing falling from 8% to 4%.
• The percentage of respondents who were unsure also declined significantly, from 17% in 2018 to 8% in 2024.
• This trend indicates growing public consensus in favor of increasing funding for opioid addiction research.

(Source: Statista)

Initiatives for Opioid Addiction and Remedy Statistics

• Initiatives addressing opioid addiction and its remedies are multifaceted, combining prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies.
• The U.S. government, through organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), has launched several key programs.
• The NIH HEAL Initiative focuses on advancing scientific research to improve treatments for opioid use disorder and develop non-addictive pain management alternatives.
• Additionally, SAMHSA has provided over $47.8 million in grant funding to expand access to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and support overdose prevention efforts.
• Recent funding from the Biden-Harris Administration targets rural areas, underlining a focus on equitable access to recovery services.
• These initiatives reflect a broad, collaborative effort to combat the opioid crisis, with an emphasis on innovative solutions and research-driven outcomes​.

(Sources: SAMHSA, NIH HEAL Initiative)

Regulations for Opioid Drugs Statistics

• Regulations governing opioid drugs vary by country, but key policies often focus on controlling production, prescription, and treatment.
• In the U.S., opioid regulation is primarily managed through federal laws like the Controlled Substances Act, which sets strict guidelines for the manufacturing, distribution, and use of opioids.
• Additionally, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) imposes quotas on opioid production to prevent excess supply. Recent updates have expanded access to treatment, such as allowing mobile opioid treatment programs and using telehealth for prescribing medications like buprenorphine and methadone.
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also updated its 42 CFR Part 8 rules, enhancing flexibility for patients to receive take-home doses of methadone and improving access to opioid use disorder (OUD) treatments.
• Globally, similar approaches can be seen in countries like Canada and the U.K., where regulations aim to balance opioid access for pain management with measures to prevent abuse.

(Sources: SAMHSA, Policy & Medicine)

Recent Developments

Acquisitions and Mergers:

• Purdue Pharma bankruptcy settlement: In 2023, Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin, reached a bankruptcy settlement of $6 billion with the U.S. government and state authorities to resolve thousands of lawsuits related to the opioid crisis. The settlement funds will go towards opioid treatment programs and preventive measures.
• Mallinckrodt finalizes restructuring deal: In 2023, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals completed a $1.6 billion restructuring deal, allowing the company to address its opioid-related liabilities while continuing operations. A significant portion of the settlement will be directed toward opioid addiction treatment initiatives.

New Product Launches:

• Olinvyk (oliceridine) launch by Trevena: In 2023, Trevena Inc. launched Olinvyk, an opioid approved for the management of moderate to severe pain in adults. The drug is designed to offer pain relief with fewer side effects compared to traditional opioids, representing an alternative in-hospital pain management setting.
• Braeburn’s Brixadi receives FDA approval: In early 2024, Braeburn received FDA approval for Brixadi, a long-acting injectable opioid treatment for patients with opioid use disorder (OUD). Brixadi is designed to be administered monthly, providing an extended-release solution for managing OUD.

Funding:

• $450 million grant for opioid addiction treatment by the U.S. government: In 2023, the U.S. government announced a $450 million grant to expand opioid addiction treatment programs across the country. The funding is aimed at increasing access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT), particularly in underserved communities.
• PsycheMedics raises $25 million for opioid testing technology: In 2024, PsycheMedics Corporation, a leader in drug testing solutions, raised $25 million to develop and enhance its opioid testing technology. The funds will help expand the company’s drug detection methods, particularly for workplace and law enforcement use.

Technological Advancements:

• AI and Predictive Analytics in Opioid Treatment: AI and predictive analytics are increasingly being used to identify patients at risk of opioid misuse and guide personalized treatment plans. By 2025, it is expected that over 30% of opioid treatment programs will incorporate AI tools to enhance treatment outcomes and prevent relapse.
• Telemedicine for Opioid Treatment: Telemedicine has gained prominence as a tool for opioid addiction treatment, particularly in rural areas. In 2023, 40% of opioid treatment programs offered telemedicine services, allowing patients to receive virtual consultations and medication-assisted treatment.

Market Dynamics:

• Growth in the Opioid Addiction Treatment Market: This growth is driven by the increasing availability of medication-assisted treatments, government initiatives, and rising awareness of opioid misuse.
• Rising Demand for Long-Acting Opioid Treatments: There is a growing demand for long-acting opioid treatments such as injectables and implants, which offer sustained relief and lower the risk of abuse. By 2025, long-acting treatments are expected to account for 25% of the opioid treatment market.

Conclusion

Opioid Statistics – The opioid crisis is a complex public health and economic issue driven by over-prescription, aggressive marketing, socioeconomic factors, and weak regulations.

It has resulted in a significant rise in overdose deaths and substantial economic costs, including healthcare expenses and lost productivity.

While various policies, such as prescription monitoring and increased treatment access, have had some success, challenges persist.

Addressing the crisis requires ongoing efforts to find better pain management solutions. Improve provider education, and tackle underlying socioeconomic issues to reduce addiction and its impacts.

FAQs

Discuss Your Needs With Our Analyst

Please share your requirements with more details so our analyst can check if they can solve your problem(s)

Request a Sample Download PDF