Drug Use
Child Opioid Overdoses Have Nearly Doubled Since 2004
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Published March 15, 2018
Updated July 28, 2026
A study published this month in the journal Pediatrics highlighted a disturbing trend of increasing child opioid hospitalizations. According to the study, child hospitalizations due to opioid overdoses nearly doubled between 2004 and 2015, the majority of which were for children ages 12 to 17. One-third of the opioid hospitalizations were for children under the age of six.1 Most of the children had overdosed on prescription opioids or illicit opioids like heroin.
The study found that between 2004 and 2015, there were a total of 3,647 hospitalizations related to opioids in 31 different hospitals. Although the percentage of children who died after being admitted to the hospital decreased between 2004 and 2015, the total number of hospitalizations increased tremendously, from 797 during the first three years of the study to 1,504 in the final three years of the study.
An article published in Time cited the study and emphasized the fact that these statistics are not only concerning for American youth, but they are also an indication that parents and pediatricians need to be vigilant about combating the opioid crisis in the U.S.2
Preventing Opioid Addiction and Overdose in Children and Adults
Often times, a lack of attention is to blame for opioid overdoses in children. Young children are curious, and therefore may find prescription opioids and unintentionally overdose on them. On the other hand, older kids and teens may be more susceptible to peer pressure from friends and/or family members.
Knowing the signs of illicit and prescription opioid abuse is one way to combat overdoses and help loved ones of any age get the treatment they need. Some common signs of opioid abuse and addiction include:3
- Needle marks on arms and legs
- Pinpoint pupils
- Uncharacteristic mood swings
- Poor judgment and decision-making
- Isolating from friends and family
- Flushed, itchy skin
- Excessive drowsiness
- Faking injuries to go to the doctor and get a prescription
- Visiting multiple doctors to get prescriptions
Drug and alcohol detox is most often the first step to overcoming opioid addiction, as it is very difficult and dangerous to stop using these drugs on your own. Medically-assisted detox can provide assistance in overcoming a physical addiction to opioids while also preparing the body and mind for entry into rehab.
Upon completion of detox, enrolling in a long-term residential or outpatient drug rehab program will provide the best opportunity for continued sobriety, with behavioral therapy, 12-step program work, peer support, and structured living.
If you or a loved one is addicted to illicit or prescription opioids, don’t underestimate the impact your addiction may have on yourself, your children, your spouse, or your loved ones. Call Nova Recovery Center today to start your recovery journey.
References:
- pediatrics.aappublications.org: Early
- time.com: Childhood opioid overdoses
- https://www.addictioncenter.com/opiates/symptoms-signs/
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Opioid Exposure
How common are opioid overdoses in children?
Pediatric opioid poisonings have increased significantly in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), opioid exposures among children under six years old increased by more than 100% between 2010 and 2018. The majority of these cases involve young children accessing medications intended for adults in the home.
What are the most common opioids involved in child poisonings?
Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicates that buprenorphine products used for addiction treatment, methadone, oxycodone, and hydrocodone are the most frequently implicated in pediatric exposures. Buprenorphine, despite being a medication-assisted treatment, poses particular risk to children due to its potency at low doses.
How can families prevent opioid exposure in children?
The Safe Kids Worldwide organization recommends storing all medications up and away, out of children’s sight and reach, ideally in a locked location. Use child-resistant caps properly, dispose of unused medications promptly through take-back programs, and never refer to medicine as “candy.” For families in recovery, safe medication storage is critical. Nova Recovery Center provides family counseling that includes education on creating safe home environments.
What should I do if my child accidentally ingests opioids?
Call 911 immediately or contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Even small amounts of opioids can be life-threatening to children. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, symptoms may include unusual sleepiness, difficulty breathing, pinpoint pupils, or loss of consciousness. If naloxone (Narcan) is available, it can be administered while waiting for emergency services. Time is critical, faster treatment significantly improves outcomes.
Where can parents struggling with opioid addiction get help in Texas?
Nova Recovery Center offers comprehensive drug detox services and evidence-based treatment at locations throughout Texas, including Austin, Houston, and San Antonio. Our programs include medication-assisted treatment, individual and group therapy, and specialized family therapy to help parents in recovery create safe, stable environments for their children. Call (512) 605-2955 to speak confidentially with an admission specialist.
Protecting Children Through Evidence-Based Prevention
As opioid prescribing patterns have shifted and medication-assisted treatment has expanded, the risk landscape for pediatric exposure has evolved. Research published in JAMA Pediatrics demonstrates that homes where prescription opioids or buprenorphine products are present carry elevated risk for accidental pediatric ingestion. For families affected by substance use disorders, creating a safe home environment requires both practical safety measures and sustained recovery support. Nova Recovery Center’s comprehensive aftercare programs help individuals maintain long-term sobriety while learning to manage medications safely and reduce household risks.
If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction and concerned about your family’s safety, reach out today. Call (512) 605-2955 to learn about our treatment options in Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Colorado Springs, or explore our intensive outpatient programs that allow you to receive care while maintaining your family responsibilities.
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