On International Overdose Awareness Day, the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) provided key insights into the trends and causes of overdose deaths in Europe. The agency reported that overdose remains a major cause of preventable death, with approximately 7,000 fatalities recorded in 2022 across the EU, Turkey, and Norway. The majority of these deaths involve opioids, such as heroin and potent synthetic opioids like nitazenes, particularly in countries like Estonia and Latvia. The report also highlighted the significant role of cocaine in polysubstance use-related deaths and the commonality of benzodiazepines in overdose cases. A notable concern is the increasing involvement of suicidal intent in drug-induced deaths, especially among women, prompting calls for targeted interventions.

Preventive measures emphasised by the EUDA include improving drug treatment services and implementing best practice guidelines across various settings, including hospitals and prisons. The report also draws attention to the importance of addressing risk factors such as reduced opioid tolerance following prison release. The EUDA stresses the need for comprehensive strategies to reduce drug-related harm, aligning with the objectives of the EU Drugs Strategy and Action Plan 2021–25. For more information, visit EUDA.