Maryland recorded a 26 percent decrease in drug overdose deaths in 2025, marking the fourth consecutive year of decline, according to provisional data released by Governor Wes Moore.
The state reported 1,315 overdose deaths last year, the lowest total in a decade and a 53 percent drop from the peak of 2,800 deaths in 2021. Declines were reported across all major drug categories and demographic groups, including a 31 percent reduction in fentanyl-related deaths.
State officials said the data also show progress alongside continued disparities. Overdose deaths among non-Hispanic Black men aged 55 and older declined, though rates for this group remain significantly higher than for white men in the same age range. In addition, Maryland distributed a record number of harm-reduction supplies in 2025, including more than 440,000 doses of naloxone and over 272,000 drug test strips. Officials emphasized that the figures are preliminary and may change as investigations continue, and encouraged residents experiencing substance use or behavioral health crises to seek help through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
