Local drug-related emergency department visits

DAWN, the Drug Abuse Warning Network, recently released a report about drug-related emergency department (ED) visits in the Seattle metropolitan area.

According to the report, patients aged 18-24 had the highest rate of drug-related ED visits and the highest rate of ED visits related to illicit drugs and the nonmedical use of pharmaceuticals. 

Seattle's rate of ED visits involving drug misuse or abuse is higher than the national average.


Seattle's rate of ED visits involving nonmedical use of pharmaceuticals is higher than the national average.


When it comes to illicit drugs, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana are the top three drugs involved in drug-related ED visits.  Seattle's rates of ED visits due to heroin, stimulants, and meth are significantly higher than the national average.


Seattle's rates of ED visits related to underage drinking have decreased while national rates have increased.