Despite a decline in opioid deaths, the fight on the ground continues

WORCESTER, Mass. – A naloxone spray can mean the difference between life and death.

“Narcan, or naloxone, is a life-saving medication that can reverse overdose episodes almost immediately,” said Dr. Mohammad Alhabbal, medical director of AdCare Hospital in Worcester.

A dose of naloxone is always around Dr. Alhabbal. According to the state of Massachusetts, more than 2,100 people died last year as a result of an opioid-related overdose. That's almost six people a day, and fentanyl has only made the problem worse.

“It is very important to share the numbers and statistics so that people become more aware of how serious the problem is,” Alhabbal said.

Naloxone is now available without a prescription. DPH distributed nearly 200,000 kits in 2023. They are located in schools and public buildings – i.e. in places where they can be quickly accessed.

It has arguably become the most important tool in the state's tool belt, especially as the stigma surrounding addiction continues to be keenly felt.

“What we know is that one in four, about 25% of people who suffer from a substance use disorder, and particularly an opioid disorder, are in treatment,” Alhabbal said. “So we’re talking about about 75% who don’t seek treatment.”

Worcester, Chicopee and Pittsfield have seen opioid overdose deaths decline over the past year.

But even though there is progress, people are still dying.

“Knowing what's out there and educating our population, I think that can be very helpful,” Alhabbal said.

According to Alhabbal, the first step is actually the most important, and that is to seek help. He says you should contact your primary care doctor and perhaps a local substance abuse organization to get the help you need.