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Did you know that Los Angeles County methamphetamine overdose deaths remain higher than fentanyl overdose deaths? While fentanyl has dominated national headlines, the latest data from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health show that methamphetamine is still involved in more accidental overdose deaths in the county.

There is encouraging news. Accidental overdose deaths declined for the third consecutive year in 2025, reflecting the positive impact of prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts. However, methamphetamine was still involved in about 61% of accidental overdose deaths, compared with about 50% involving fentanyl. Many of those deaths involved multiple substances, underscoring the complexity of today’s overdose crisis.

As Dr. Nora D. Volkow, the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, explains, “The opioid crisis and resulting overdose deaths in the United States are now well known, but what is less recognized is that there is a growing crisis of overdose deaths involving methamphetamine and other stimulants.”

What Do Los Angeles County Methamphetamine Overdose Deaths Reveal?

The latest numbers remind us that the overdose crisis continues to evolve. Although fentanyl remains a major public health threat, methamphetamine continues to play a major role in fatal overdoses throughout Los Angeles County.

One reason is that many people no longer use a single drug. More than half of methamphetamine-related overdose deaths also involve opioids, including fentanyl. This combination greatly increases the risk of a life-threatening medical emergency.

Why Is Methamphetamine So Dangerous?

Methamphetamine is a potent stimulant that affects the brain, heart, and central nervous system. As Dr. Ken Bachrach, the former Clinical Director of TTC, explains, “Some people get addicted the first time they use methamphetamine, while others take longer for this to occur. Like many drugs, the euphoric effect is due to the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine to the reward center of the brain. Methamphetamine releases 3 to 4 times more dopamine to the reward center than cocaine.”

Using crystal meth can cause rapid heart rate, dangerously high body temperature, paranoia, hallucinations, seizures, stroke, and heart attack. Unlike opioids, stimulant overdoses often present as extreme agitation, commonly called “overamping.” Anyone experiencing these symptoms after using methamphetamine should seek immediate emergency medical care.

What Are the Warning Signs of Methamphetamine Addiction?

Methamphetamine addiction often develops gradually. Family members may notice dramatic behavioral changes before recognizing a substance use disorder.

Common warning signs include:

• Staying awake for extended periods
• Sudden weight loss
• Severe mood swings
• Anxiety or paranoia
• Aggressive behavior
• Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities
• Continuing to use despite harmful consequences

Recognizing these signs early can make it easier to seek treatment before an overdose or another serious medical crisis.

How Can Tarzana Treatment Centers Help?

Recovery from methamphetamine addiction is possible. Although no FDA-approved medication is available for methamphetamine use disorder, evidence-based treatment has helped many people achieve lasting recovery.

Tarzana Treatment Centers provides comprehensive care, including residential and outpatient treatment, mental health services, primary medical care, individual and group counseling, and long-term recovery support. Every treatment plan is individualized because each person’s recovery journey is unique.

The latest public health data show real progress, yet methamphetamine overdose deaths in Los Angeles County remain a serious concern. Understanding the risks of methamphetamine, recognizing the warning signs of addiction, and seeking treatment early can save lives.

If you or someone you love is struggling with methamphetamine or another substance use disorder, Tarzana Treatment Centers offers compassionate, evidence-based care to help people begin and sustain recovery.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone overdose on methamphetamine?

Yes. Methamphetamine can cause life-threatening emergencies, including heart attacks, strokes, seizures, hyperthermia, and stimulant-induced psychosis.

Why are Los Angeles County methamphetamine overdose deaths still higher than fentanyl overdose deaths?

According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, methamphetamine continues to be involved in more accidental overdose deaths than fentanyl. Many of these deaths involve multiple substances, including opioids.

Can methamphetamine addiction be treated?

Yes. Behavioral therapies, counseling, treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions, and long-term recovery support can help people achieve lasting recovery.