Los Angeles County experienced its most significant decline in drug-related overdose deaths in history during 2024, with fatalities dropping 22% compared to the previous year, health officials announced Wednesday.
The county recorded 2,438 drug-related overdose and poisoning deaths in 2024, down from 3,137 deaths in 2023 — the lowest number since 2019, according to data from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the county's medical examiner.
Fentanyl-related deaths declined 37%, while methamphetamine-related deaths dropped 20%. The reductions represent a dramatic reversal in a crisis that has plagued the nation's most populous county for years.
"In the midst of the worst overdose and substance use crisis in Los Angeles County's history, I am encouraged by this steadfast decline in overdose deaths for the second year in a row," said Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, the county's chair pro tem. "This is a testament to the County's investment in public health and its comprehensive approach to addressing substance use, including harm reduction, treatment, and recovery."
Dr. Gary Tsai, who presented the findings during a media briefing, attributed the decline to a multi-pronged approach that significantly expanded prevention, treatment and harm reduction services. The county scaled up investments in substance use prevention by 260%, treatment services by 275%, and harm reduction services by 500% in 2024.
"We think that this is an indication that the collective impact and service continuum framework that public health has been using to address the overdose crisis is working," Tsai said. "This framework focuses on recognizing that the overdose crisis is a complex issue that requires a number of different approaches occurring simultaneously."
The widespread distribution of naloxone, also known as Narcan, played a crucial role in saving lives, officials said. The overdose-reversing medication is now available in schools, libraries, police departments, community centers and housing facilities across the county.
"If I was forced to point to one thing, I would probably point to the increased availability of naloxone, simply because that is most directly related to reversing overdoses," Tsai said when asked about the most effective intervention.
Despite the progress, significant disparities persist. Black residents remain disproportionately represented in overdose death rates, while Latino and white populations account for the highest raw numbers of fatalities. Males are four times more likely to die from fentanyl-related overdoses than females.
Fentanyl overdose deaths occurred most frequently among adults ages 40 to 64, followed by those ages 26 to 39. However, when adjusted for population size, the 26-39 age group had the highest death rate.
"Despite this encouraging trend, Black residents and individuals living in poverty continue to face disproportionately high rates of overdose deaths," said Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. "This underscores the urgent need for continued investments in equitable public health strategies."
The county's progress mirrors national trends. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a 37% reduction in fentanyl-related deaths nationwide, identical to LA County's decline.
However, health officials cautioned that recent federal data shows upticks in overdose deaths in early 2025, though LA County's preliminary January 2025 data shows continued improvement compared to the same month in 2024.
"The progress that we're making around overdose deaths is tenuous," Tsai warned. "Now is not the time to take our foot off the gas, so to speak."
Dr. Barbara Ferrer, director of the county's public health department, emphasized that sustained investment remains critical.
"While we are encouraged by this trend, we know the work is far from over," Ferrer said. "Sustained investment in prevention, treatment, and recovery services is essential to ensuring every person in our community has the opportunity to live a healthy, supported life."
The county launched initiatives including the "Fentanyl Frontline" campaign to increase naloxone distribution and created ByLAforLA.org, a platform connecting residents to harm reduction services and support.
Despite the historic decline, overdose deaths remain more than double the levels recorded in 2018, officials noted.
Residents seeking substance use assistance can access services 24/7 by calling 800-854-7771 and selecting option 2.
