What’s the Opioid Picture in California’s High Desert?

Statistics courtesy of California Overdose Surveillance Dashboard, prepared by California Department of Public Health (CDPH - Substance and Addiction Prevention Branch (SAPB). https://skylab.cdph.ca.gov/ODdash

Imperial, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties

Opioid prescriptions in California are decreasing, thanks to a concentrated effort to fight this crisis. But a lot of work still needs to be done.

Drug-related overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the United States. More than three out of five drug overdose deaths involve an opioid.

But the numbers don’t stop there.

In 2022, health officials tallied these opioid-related statistics:

California

  • 7,385 deaths
  • 21,316 emergency department visits
  • 13.6 million prescriptions

Imperial County

  • 24 deaths
  • 85 emergency department visits
  • 58,881 prescriptions

Riverside County

  • 572 deaths
  • 1,295 emergency department visits
  • 983,991 prescriptions

San Bernardino County

  • 380 deaths
  • 1,089 emergency department visits
  • 894,171 prescriptions

Many people who misuse opioids get them from a friend or relative — often without that person’s knowledge. By removing the risk of unused opioids in your home, you can help address the devastating opioid crisis affecting so many American families. Proper disposal of unused prescription opioids saves lives.

To find a bin near you, visit medtakebackcalifornia.org.
Read more stories about med bins in California’s high desert.