Drug overdose deaths in the U.S. and the role of fentanyl

Addiction expert Joe Schrank calls for radical change in federal drug policies to reduce high overdose deaths in the U.S. Synthetic opioids, especially fentanyl, are the main cause of overdose deaths. While deaths involving opioids decreased in 2023, deaths from cocaine and psychostimulants increased. Western states saw notable increases in overdose deaths, potentially linked to fentanyl availability. Various measures like fentanyl test strips and naloxone are recommended by the CDC to reduce overdose risks.

Death of Dr. Sarah Sweeney in St. Louis

The death of a 39-year-old doctor in St. Louis due to a drug overdose has raised questions about previous deaths in the same home. Investigations are ongoing to determine if foul play was involved in the deaths of the doctor and another woman in the same residence.

Death of Marco Troper at UC Berkeley

The 19-year-old son of former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki was found dead at the University of California, Berkeley, with his family suspecting a drug overdose as the cause. The family is devastated by the loss, and they are awaiting a toxicology report to determine the exact cause of death.