Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Monterey, San Benito, and Tulare 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
Fresno County
- 129 deaths
- 272 emergency department visits
- 400,680 prescriptions
Kern County
- 308 deaths
- 674 emergency department visits
- 376,217 prescriptions
Kings County
- 17 deaths
- 73 emergency department visits
- 55,254 prescriptions
Madera County
- 12 deaths
- 42 emergency department visits
- 58,910 prescriptions
Mariposa County
- 2 deaths
- 4 emergency department visits
- 8,814 prescriptions
Merced County
- 39 deaths
- 92 emergency department visits
- 112,302 prescriptions
Monterey County
- 31 deaths
- 182 emergency department visits
- 126,988 prescriptions
San Benito County
- 11 deaths
- 20 emergency department visits
- 17,654 prescriptions
Tulare County
- 57 deaths
- 228 emergency department visits
- 201,039 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 Southern Central Valley.
