US study reveals higher death rates from smoking fentanyl compared to injection

A recent government study suggests that smoking has become the most common method of drug intake in U.S. overdose deaths. 

The study, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, found that smoking fentanyl has become more common than injecting it, with potent, illicit versions of the painkiller being involved in more U.S. overdose deaths than any other drug. The study's lead author, Lauren Tanz, mentioned that while smoking fentanyl may pose a somewhat lower risk of overdose compared to injecting it, both methods still carry substantial risks. The study found that between early 2020 and late 2022, the percentage of overdose deaths with evidence of smoking rose 74%, while the percentage of deaths with evidence of injection fell 29%. This shift towards smoking fentanyl was observed in every region of the country. However, the study also noted limitations in accurately determining the method of drug intake in overdose deaths, especially in cases where no witnesses were present.

Findings of the study

The study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention observed a significant increase in smoking fentanyl as the most common method of drug intake in U.S. overdose deaths.

The study's lead author, Lauren Tanz, highlighted that although smoking fentanyl may pose a somewhat lower risk of overdose compared to injecting it, both methods still carry substantial risks.