You can’t smell, taste, or see fentanyl, but an amount smaller than a raindrop could kill you. Fentanyl addiction is a serious public health risk. Drug overdose is a leading cause of death in U.S. adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control.1 Sadly, Virginians know how devastating the fentanyl crisis can be.
Virginia fentanyl deaths have decreased in the last year. Education and better access to fentanyl addiction treatment in VA are two of the reasons why. However, that doesn’t mean the threat of fentanyl and other opiates is going away. New therapies and safety precautions provide hope for those who are still struggling with opioid use disorder.
Sobrius understands the toll fentanyl is taking on Virginia residents and we’re here to help.
What drug causes the most deaths in the U.S.?
When learning about a drug epidemic, it’s natural to ask questions like, “What state has the most fentanyl deaths?” or “What state has the worst opioid problems?” Knowing what drug causes the most deaths in the U.S. can be important information if you’re trying to help someone who is struggling with addiction.
Opioids, including heroin, fentanyl, and morphine, caused the greatest number of overdose deaths, according to the most recent information from the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS).
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that’s 100 times more potent than morphine. It affects the brain’s pleasure center quickly and triggers the release of chemicals that create a sense of euphoria. When prescribed by a doctor and used correctly, fentanyl can be a powerful pain reliever. Any misuse of fentanyl increases the risk of addiction.
Fentanyl deaths can also happen through unintentional use. Fentanyl can be mixed with other drugs like cocaine to increase that substance’s potency. In many cases, people aren’t aware they are purchasing drugs laced with fentanyl. When a person with no tolerance for opioids takes even a small amount of fentanyl, it can cause an overdose.
Signs of fentanyl addiction
More Virginia fentanyl deaths could be prevented if more people knew the warning signs of opioid use disorder. Some of the symptoms include:
- Mood swings
- Unintentional weight loss
- Constricted pupils
- Loss of interest in favorite activities
- Isolation from family and friends
- Neglect of school, work, or other responsibilities without explanation
- Needle marks
- Drug paraphernalia
- Nodding off at unusual or inappropriate times
- Hallucinations
- Impulsive behavior
- Changes in sleep habits
If you suspect someone you care about is experimenting with fentanyl or other opioids, talk to them about your concerns. Encourage them to seek treatment as soon as possible.
Fentanyl in Virginia: What state has the most fentanyl deaths?
What state has the worst opioid problems, especially with fentanyl? California had the most fentanyl deaths in 2022, numbering more than 6,000.2
However, at 80.9 per 100,000, West Virginia had by far the highest rate of all overdose deaths.3 1,335 people lost their lives because of overdoses, and up to 76% of those deaths were due to fentanyl.4
Despite Virginia’s comparatively lower death rate of 28.8, over 2,490 people still died from overdoses in the same year, the vast majority of which were due to fentanyl.5 Fortunately, the number of deaths due to fentanyl in Virginia has been declining since 2021, reaching 961 in 2024.
The distribution of fatal fentanyl overdoses is relatively evenly spread across the state, with the exception of some urban areas, such as Richmond. Suburban areas tend to have higher numbers of deaths but comparable rates to more rural areas.
Certain counties, such as Buchanan and Halifax Counties, are notable rural exceptions with high rates.6
Begin fentanyl treatment at Sobrius today
There is good news about the fight against fentanyl addiction. According to the Virginia Department of Health, drug overdose deaths have decreased by 43% in the state since 2023.7
Educational efforts like Fentanyl Awareness Day help to remove the stigmas related to addiction and encourage those in need to seek treatment.
Statistics can increase understanding of the seriousness of fentanyl addiction, but even a single life lost to overdose is a tragedy. If you or someone you love is struggling with a substance use disorder, treatment can provide a second chance. Call Sobrius at 888.596.6514 or complete our online contact form to learn more about our fentanyl treatment program.
Sources:
1. CDC Reports Nearly 24% Decline in U.S. Drug Overdose Deaths. Accessed May 9, 2025
2. Are fentanyl overdose deaths rising in the US? | USAFacts Accessed May 9, 2025
3. Drug Overdose Mortality by State. Accessed May 9, 2025
4. Drug Overdose Mortality Accessed May 9, 2025
5. Drug Overdose Deaths Accessed May 9, 2025
6. Defining Rurality in Virginia Accessed May 9, 2025