The opioid crisis is a Public Health emergency characterized by widespread misuse and addiction to opioid drugs. This includes prescription pain relievers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl, as well as illegal drugs like heroin.
The crisis began in the 1990s when pharmaceutical industry vigorously promoted opioids as safe and effective treatments for chronic pain, leading to a significant increase in opioid prescriptions and the devastating consequences that followed.

• The misuse and abuse of opioids contributed to widespread addiction.
• ⁠⁠In 2021 alone, opioid-related deaths in the U.S. surpassed 80,000.

The opioid crisis remains a complex challenge that requires a multi-faceted approach, including prevention, treatment, law enforcement, and societal change. Addressing this crisis involves balancing the legitimate need of opioids for pain management with the imperative to reduce their addiction and overdose risks.