The devastating dance between opioid and housing crises: Evidence from OxyContin reformulation.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Health Economics

Background:

• Housing instability and drug misuse are critical U.S. challenges with severe health and societal impacts.
• The connection between the opioid crisis and housing instability remains under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of the OxyContin reformulation on eviction rates.
• To explore the consequences of the opioid crisis on housing stability.

Main Methods:

• A dose-response Difference-in-Differences model was used.
• Analysis of eviction data from 2004 to 2016.

Main Results:

• The OxyContin reformulation significantly increased evictions, particularly in areas with weaker tenant protections or limited mental health resources.
• Post-reformulation, there was increased marijuana initiation, worsened mental and physical health, and greater reliance on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
• Evidence suggests increased marital disruption following the reformulation.

Conclusions:

• The OxyContin reformulation intensified housing instability and financial burdens.
• Urgent, collaborative action between public health and housing authorities is needed to address the intertwined opioid and housing crises.