Opioids are behind about three-fourths of the overdoses, according to Wednesday’s data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
opioid epidemic
Maine considers a new strategy in battle against opioid epidemic: decriminalization
Proposed legislation could make Maine the second state to stop arresting people for possessing small amounts of drugs such as opioids, and instead steer them toward treatment.
Drug overdose deaths remain high in latest monthly report
The Maine Attorney General’s Office report showed 45 confirmed or suspected deaths in February, down slightly from January but still above the monthly average in 2020, a record year.
Police departments get new tool to reduce overdose deaths: fentanyl test strips
The strips can make users aware that the deadly opioid is present in drugs they are taking so they can take precautions.
Phish guitarist to found substance abuse treatment center
Trey Anastasio, who has been sober for 14 years, plans to start the center in Vermont, where the band was formed in 1983
Maine overdose deaths set new record in 2020, and 2021 started even worse
Drug overdose deaths surged in January, with 58 confirmed or suspected fatal overdoses, the highest monthly figure in at least a year.
Maine prisons will expand treatment for opioid use disorder
The state prisons will provide access to medication-assisted treatment for all inmates who need it, something advocates have long pushed the state to do.
McKinsey agrees to pay nearly $600 million for its role in opioid crisis
The payments are earmarked for abating the raging overdose and addiction crisis that has deepened during the coronavirus pandemic.
Police investigate 6 fatal overdoses in Sebago Lake region
Cumberland County Sheriff Kevin Joyce says 4 of the fatal overdoses since Dec. 1 occurred in Standish.
Portland stands by strict rules for needle exchange despite warnings of higher risk
The city’s health and human services director says the program has maintained access to clean syringes without relaxing its exchange rules, but public health experts say the more restrictive approach can put people at risk during the pandemic.