Overdose deaths in the U.S. are dropping for the first time in decades, with a decline of roughly 10.6 percent according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The decline in overdose deaths could result in approximately 20,000 fewer fatalities in 2024.

Some states with rapid data collection systems are seeing declines in overdose deaths of 20 to 30 percent.

Increased availability and use of naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses, is believed to be a contributing factor.

The exact reasons for the sudden decline in overdose deaths are not fully understood, with experts suggesting multiple possible factors including changes in the street drug supply and public health strategies.