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Opioid Overdose, Naloxone Administration, and Survival Outcomes in Puerto Rico: A Retrospective Analysis, 2019-2023
German H Garcia1, Samir A Nacer1, Nikita Zanko1
1San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico Health Sciences Journal
|December 16, 2025
Summary
Naloxone administration significantly reduces opioid overdose deaths in Puerto Rico. Increasing access and community engagement are key to combating the crisis.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Puerto Rico faces a critical rise in opioid distribution, overdose, and related fatalities over the past two decades.
- Understanding naloxone's impact on mortality and administration trends is vital for effective intervention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the effects of naloxone on mortality in opioid overdose cases.
- To examine current trends in naloxone administration in Puerto Rico.
- To inform strategies for reducing opioid-related deaths.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of opioid overdoses and naloxone administration in Puerto Rico (2019-2023).
- Data sourced from the Puerto Rico Mental Health and Anti-Addiction Services Administration.
- Analysis included spatial-temporal patterns, demographics, and naloxone's role in fatality reduction.
Main Results:
- Naloxone administration was more common in public spaces, with afternoon peaks.
- Middle-aged men represented the primary demographic experiencing overdoses.
- Mortality was significantly lower for individuals receiving naloxone (76% survival with one dose) compared to those who did not (56% survival).
- Multiple naloxone doses correlated with higher survival probabilities.
Conclusions:
- Findings support targeted geographic distribution of naloxone.
- Increased naloxone access and enhanced community engagement can mitigate the opioid crisis in Puerto Rico.
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