10/27/2026
ARKANSAS IS SEEING A CONCERNING NUMBER OF NON-FATAL OVERDOSES.
Non-fatal overdoses are a serious public health concern, and the latest data from the Arkansas Department of Health highlight why prevention, education, and access to resources remain so important.
๐ What the data shows:
2025: 2,462 statewide non-fatal overdose cases.
2026: 3,788 statewide non-fatal overdose cases as of October 20.
That's 1,326 more reported cases in 2026 than the 2025 figure, even though two months remain in the year.
These figures are concerning. Although we cannot determine the reason for this increase from these maps alone, they reinforce the importance of continued prevention efforts and community education.
๐ก What should our community know about non-fatal overdoses?
โข Any drug can contribute to an overdose. These Arkansas maps include suspected non-fatal overdoses involving all drugs and do not identify which specific substances caused the cases shown.
โข Opioids are an important part of the overdose crisis. Fentanyl, he**in, and prescription opioids can cause life-threatening respiratory depression.
โข Stimulants also carry risks. Co***ne and methamphetamine can cause serious complications, including dangerous changes in heart rate and body temperature.
โข Multiple substances can be involved. Combining drugs, including opioids with benzodiazepines or alcohol, can increase overdose risks.
โข A non-fatal overdose is still a medical emergency. Surviving an overdose does not mean there were no lasting consequences. Call 911 if an overdose is suspected. If opioid overdose is possible, administer naloxone if available and follow the emergency dispatcher's instructions. If you need naloxone, please contact us!
โข Prevention and education save lives. Knowing the warning signs, understanding substance-related risks, reducing stigma, and connecting people with appropriate resources can make a difference.
At eXtreme Prevention, we believe prevention begins with awareness, education, and community action. Behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a community that deserves support. We must continue working together to reduce substance-related harm and make resources accessible to those who need them.
Sources: Arkansas Department of Health, Surveillance; CDC, Drug Overdose Surveillance and Epidemiology (DOSE) dashboards.
