This City in Arizona Has The Highest Drug Overdose Rates in The State

Phoenix, Arizona, the capital and largest city of the state, has experienced a significant number of fatalities due to drug overdoses. This issue has also adversely affected the physical and mental wellbeing of numerous individuals. The city has earned the reputation of being the state’s “drug overdose capital” due to the high number of fatalities resulting from drug-related incidents. The majority of these fatalities are attributed to opioids, particularly fentanyl.

Fentanyl: A Disaster

Fentanyl is a synthetic substance that possesses a potency that is fifty to one hundred times greater than that of heroin or morphine. Oftentimes, it is combined with heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine in order to enhance their efficacy or to increase the quantity consumed. However, this also increases the likelihood of overdose as users may be unaware of the quantity or purity of the drug they are consuming.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Phoenix has reported a significant surge in the quantity of fentanyl pills found in Arizona. The number has experienced a twofold increase, rising from 6 million in 2020 to around 12 million last year. The majority of these pills originate from Mexico, where they are manufactured in clandestine laboratories using inexpensive and readily available pharmaceuticals.

Fentanyl can be obtained in tablet, patch, or liquid formulations as well. You have the option to administer it via injection, inhale it through sniffing, ingest it by swallowing, or absorb it through your skin. Even a minuscule quantity of the substance can be fatal as it has the potential to impede or halt the individual’s heart rhythm and respiration.

The Role of Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the issue of drug overdoses in Phoenix and nationwide. The epidemic has exacerbated feelings of isolation, negatively impacted individuals’ financial situations, and induced mental strain, all of which have contributed to an upsurge in the desire for drugs. Simultaneously, it has posed challenges in accessing support and hindered the recovery process.

According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, there were 2,006 fatalities caused by drug overdoses in the state last year. This is an increase of 80% compared to the amount in 2018. Manufactured medicines such as fentanyl were responsible for 94% of deaths in 2020. In 2018, the percentage was a mere 69%. Paramedics and police in Phoenix have responded to between 700 to 800 suspected overdoses per month this year. Naloxone, an emergency medication, was administered in 80% of the calls.

This City Is The Drug Overdose Capital of Kentucky

Individuals who consume drugs in isolation and lack immediate assistance from others are at a higher risk during the pandemic. Many individuals experiencing homelessness or residing in precarious housing situations may face barriers in accessing safe injection facilities, syringe exchange programs, and other harm reduction services.

Another Factor: Excessive Heat

The exceedingly high temperatures in Phoenix throughout the summer exacerbate the drug overdose scenario. Phoenix typically experiences temperatures over 106°F (41°C) in July, with numerous days surpassing 110°F (43°C) or even 120°F (49°C).

Drug users may experience adverse health effects due to high temperatures since it can lead to dehydration, elevated blood pressure, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Additionally, it has the ability to alter the potency and duration of medicines, hence increasing their potential risk or unpredictability.

Individuals lacking housing or experiencing homelessness may face challenges accessing shelter, hydration, or areas conducive to lowering body temperature.

Frequently, individuals may spend extended periods of time exposed to direct sunlight, resulting in the possibility of experiencing sunburns, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. These circumstances can exacerbate the effects of drugs and increase the likelihood of an overdose.

Potential Solutions

The drug overdose crisis in Phoenix necessitates a comprehensive and coordinated response from all stakeholders, including the government, healthcare system, law enforcement, community organizations, and drug users themselves.

• Increasing the accessibility and availability of naloxone, a medication capable of reversing an overdose, and providing widespread education on its proper usage.
• Expanding the range of treatment and rehabilitation options available to individuals with substance use disorders, while simultaneously reducing the stigma and barriers that hinder their access to assistance.
• Enhancing harm reduction services and programs to provide secure and compassionate environments for drug users, while instructing them on risk reduction strategies to prevent fatalities.
• Facilitating the monitoring of the drug supply and drug trends, while also disseminating information to individuals and sources of any alterations or risks.
• Collaborating with neighboring states and nations to combat the manufacturing and distribution of fentanyl and other illicit substances, while adhering to regulations and legislation that ensure the well-being and safety of individuals.

This City Has Been Named The Drug Overdose Capital of California

Last Words

Phoenix is currently facing a significant issue that requires immediate attention: it has earned the reputation of being the state’s epicenter for drug overdoses. There is a significant mortality rate in the city due to drug-related incidents, primarily attributed to the widespread use of fentanyl, a potent and hazardous synthetic opioid.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the elevated temperatures have exacerbated the situation by increasing the demand for narcotics and heightening the likelihood of overdose. The city must promptly and efficiently implement many strategies to prevent, manage, and reverse drug overdoses in order to safeguard the lives of its inhabitants.