Approximately 200,000 people die from opioid overdoses worldwide each year, including over 60,000 individuals in the U.S. in 2024. The most effective treatment for opioid use disorder involves the use of methadone and buprenorphine. However, many individuals with opioid use disorder either do not want or lack access to these medications. To improve public health outcomes, D4DPR supports incorporating additional safer supply options, such as prescribed heroin or other opioids, into existing regulatory frameworks.
Hunter Platzman was the principal developer and author of this position paper.
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