Non-fatal Overdose and Associated Factors Among People Who Use Opioids: Findings From a Cross-sectional Study
Md Safaet Hossain Sujan1, Jeffrey A Wickersham2, Antoine Khati1
1Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA.
Journal of Community Health
|May 17, 2025
Summary
Nearly half of people who use opioids (PWUO) experienced non-fatal overdose. Opioid dependence and suicidal ideation increased overdose risk, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Addiction Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- People who use opioids (PWUO) have elevated risks of overdose, morbidity, and mortality.
- Understanding factors contributing to non-fatal overdose is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and associated factors of non-fatal opioid overdose among PWUO.
- To identify key risk factors for non-fatal overdose in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study conducted from April to June 2024, enrolling 199 adults with recent opioid use history.
- Data collected via self-report on socio-demographics, overdose history, opioid use, alcohol consumption, and mental health symptoms.
- Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify significant correlations.
Main Results:
- 49.2% of participants reported a history of non-fatal opioid overdose.
- Opioid dependence (aOR: 4.4), and suicidal ideation (aOR: 1.8) were significantly associated with increased odds of overdose.
- Older age was associated with decreased odds of overdose (aOR: 0.9).
Conclusions:
- High rates of non-fatal opioid overdose necessitate urgent, targeted harm reduction interventions.
- Addressing opioid dependence and suicidal ideation is critical for overdose prevention in PWUO.
- Cross-sector collaboration is essential to implement comprehensive prevention and support strategies.
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