AMR medics responded to 40 suspected opioid overdoses across the two cities during September: 30 in Manchester and 10 in Nashua.
In stark contrast to August, seven of September’s suspected opioid overdoses were fatal: four in Manchester and three in Nashua.
Both cities remain on track to finish 2026 with the lowest annual number of suspected opioid overdoses since AMR began tracking these incidents more than 11 years ago. Despite the increase in deaths during September, Manchester also remains on track to record its lowest annual number of suspected opioid overdose deaths since tracking began in 2015.
Through September, Nashua’s suspected opioid overdoses are trending to be 7% below the previous year, putting the city on pace for a record low. If that trend holds, it will mark five consecutive years of declining suspected opioid overdoses. Suspected opioid overdose deaths are trending 13% below the previous year, putting Nashua on pace to match its record low set in 2024.
In Manchester, suspected opioid overdoses are trending 1% below the previous year, putting the city on pace for a new record low following a 47% decline over the last three years. Suspected opioid overdose deaths are trending 17% below the previous year, which would also represent a new record low.
Manchester recorded zero suspected opioid overdose deaths in August for the first time since tracking began, followed by four in September. That change underscores the unpredictability of the opioid epidemic. Over the long term, both cities have experienced substantial declines in suspected opioid overdoses and deaths, but monthly totals can fluctuate without warning.
At the same time, community Narcan activity has continued to increase steadily. Despite the overall declines in overdoses and deaths, the continued need for investment and action to combat the opioid epidemic and prevent loss of life should not be understated or ignored.
In New Hampshire, anyone seeking substance use disorder treatment can access the NH Doorway program by calling 2-1-1 at any time, day or night, or visiting www.thedoorway.nh.gov. If you believe someone is overdosing, call 9-1-1 immediately.
To help prevent overdose deaths, people who use illicit drugs should avoid using alone and keep Narcan readily available. Narcan is easy to administer and available without a prescription at most pharmacies throughout New Hampshire. It is also available free of charge through local public health departments and NH Doorway locations.
