Illicit fentanyl and methamphetamine are becoming increasingly intertwined, according to a new report by Millennium Health. The study reveals that 60% of patients whose urine samples tested positive for fentanyl also had traces of methamphetamine. Additionally, cocaine was found in 22% of the fentanyl-positive samples. This data highlights the impact of what experts are calling the “fourth wave” of the nation’s overdose epidemic.
Over the past decade, the misuse of prescription opioids triggered the first wave of the crisis, followed by a surge in heroin use and, more recently, the rise of illicit fentanyl. The Millennium report indicates that individuals battling addiction are now combining illicit fentanyl with other substances, including stimulants like methamphetamine and cocaine.
Interestingly, the report suggests a decline in the abuse of heroin and prescription opioids compared to a decade ago. Out of the fentanyl samples analyzed in the study, only 17% also contained heroin, and 7% showed the presence of prescription opioids. These findings imply a significant shift in the drugs of choice for individuals struggling with addiction.
The implications of these trends are far-reaching and have serious consequences for public health. Drug overdose deaths in the United States reached a record high, surpassing 100,000 in 2021, and have continued to rise. The involvement of stimulants, particularly methamphetamine, in fentanyl-related fatalities has also considerably increased. In 2010, stimulants were found in just 1 in 100 fentanyl overdose deaths, but by 2021, that number had risen to about 1 in 3.
Eric Dawson, the Vice President of Clinical Affairs at Millennium Health, expressed concern about the prevalence of methamphetamine in the samples. He noted that the drug is now more potent, pure, and accessible than ever, making it highly dangerous. Unfortunately, there are currently no FDA-approved medications specifically designed to counteract overdoses involving stimulants like methamphetamine, further exacerbating the crisis.
The Millennium report also revealed regional differences in drug use. Methamphetamine was more commonly detected in fentanyl-positive urine samples in the western United States, particularly in the Pacific and Mountain West states. Cocaine, on the other hand, appeared to be more prevalent in the eastern U.S., with over 54% of fentanyl-positive samples in New England also testing positive for cocaine.
Overall, the report underscores the complex nature of the addiction epidemic in the United States. It confirms that the crisis has evolved into a phase where individuals frequently engage in polysubstance abuse, not solely relying on fentanyl. This poses significant challenges for public health authorities striving to address and mitigate overdose deaths nationwide.
Looking ahead, it is crucial to consider the future implications of these patterns and trends. The intersecting use of fentanyl and methamphetamine highlights the need for innovative strategies and solutions to combat substance abuse and prevent fatalities. Policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities must work collaboratively to develop effective treatments for stimulant-use disorder, a critical area currently lacking in appropriate medications.
As the crisis continues to evolve, it is essential to stay vigilant and adapt interventions accordingly. This includes enhancing access to naloxone and overdose reversal medications for opioid-related overdoses, while also exploring new alternatives for stimulant-related emergencies. Moreover, comprehensive prevention programs, robust education campaigns, and increased support for holistic addiction treatments are vital to address the ongoing challenges posed by the overdose epidemic.
It is important to note that these predictions and recommendations are based on the analysis of the current trends and data presented in the Millennium report. While they may offer valuable insights, continuous monitoring, research, and adaptation are essential to keep pace with the evolving landscape of substance abuse and overdose deaths.
In conclusion, the Millennium report sheds light on the increasing overlap of fentanyl and methamphetamine use in the United States. The trends identified in the study underscore the multifaceted nature of the addiction epidemic and the urgent need for tailored interventions. To effectively address the crisis, stakeholders must remain proactive, embrace innovative approaches, and prioritize evidence-based strategies that target the distinct challenges associated with polysubstance abuse. By doing so, we can strive towards a future where lives are saved, and individuals receive the comprehensive support they need to overcome addiction.