SCDPH report shows increase in overdose deaths in the Lowcountry
CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – The South Carolina Department of Public Health released its latest report on overdose deaths.
Overall, the state saw a record decline of overdose deaths since 2012, but multiple Lowcountry counties saw an increase of nearly 30%. Those include Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester, Georgetown, and Williamsburg counties between 2022 and 2023. Officials said the higher numbers come from a variety of reasons, with around 70% of overdose deaths caused by from fentanyl.
'What we do know is that this is in every county, every state and every part of the country – is that fentanyl is in every substance,' Nanci Steadman Shipman, founder and executive director of WakeUp Carolina, said. 'Fentanyl is an opioid and it does not discriminate. The only to reverse that from crack, cocaine, molly, MDMA, is Narcan.'
Officials said the rise of reporting these deaths added to their findings. However, DPH and local organizations like WakeUp Carolina are continuing to offer harm reduction resources and grief counseling, in efforts to bring these numbers down.
'We are all kind of collaborating together to see what areas have what types of resources, and we evaluate what area has higher overdose rates versus how much Naloxone is in the area,' Julia Horan, substance use prevention unit director of SCDPH, said. 'So, we use those stats to do targeted outreach to make sure we are bringing those numbers down.'
State and local agencies cited that law enforcement agencies have been helpful, as they are providing assistance and critical resources like Naloxone, an overdose reversal drug. Officials said though prevention is important, having the materials readily available is equally important.
'We really want to stress having fentanyl testing strips and testing any drugs you may come across. Test every time because it may not be an equal amount in the drug supply. So, we remind people test every time that they use,' Horan said.
Local health departments in the Lowcountry are providing free opioid overdose kits with Naloxone and testing strips. They can be found at county clinics or departments.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
44 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Psychedelic Science 2025 Unveils Science, Studies & Trials Tracks Showcasing Next Generation in Brain Imaging, Clinical Trials, and Neuroplasticity
• Sessions cover the latest updates in psychedelic neuroscience, from psilocybin's effects on brain connectivity to trial design, clinical outcomes for PTSD, depression, addiction, and OCD, and the future of drug development through translational models and AI innovations • Speakers include globally renowned experts like Gabrielle Agin-Liebes, Ph.D., Michael Bogenschutz, M.D., Robin Carhart-Harris, Ph.D., Alan K. Davis, Ph.D., Gül Dölen, M.D., Ph.D., Ben Kelmendi, M.D., Franklin King, M.D., Amy Lehrner, Ph.D., Leslie Morland, Psy.D., David Nutt, Ph.D., Stephen Ross, M.D., Emmanuelle Schindler, M.D., Ph.D., and Nolan Williams, M.D. • Representing institutions include Columbia, CU Denver, Imperial College London, Johns Hopkins, LSU, Massachusetts General Hospital, NYU, Ohio State, Stanford, UC Berkeley, UCSD, UCSF, University of Alabama, University of New Mexico, University of Washington, and numerous VA centers DENVER, June 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025), the world's leading conference on psychedelic research, medicine, policy, and culture hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), announced its Science, Studies, and Trials tracks—three of the conference's most anticipated and data-rich offerings. Taking place June 16–20, 2025, at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, PS2025's research tracks will convene top clinical investigators, neuroscientists, biotech pioneers, and social scientists to present a comprehensive and cross-disciplinary view of this transformative field of study. At a time when the global mental health crisis continues to grow, PS2025 showcases therapeutic research using psychedelic compounds such as psilocybin, MDMA, LSD, DMT, 5-MeO-DMT, and ketamine, which are being investigated as treatments for serious mental illnesses such as addiction, depression, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as neurological conditions such as pain, Alzheimer's, Lyme Disease, and Parkinson's. Beyond clinical trials, PS2025 also offers the latest in psychedelic neuroscience, examining data from studies using new neuroimaging, cellular, and molecular research tools that deepen the understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying their remarkable effects. Social science research is also included that examines the usage, attitudes, and experiences of trial participants, psychedelic consumers, and the general public, providing important context for societal views about this rapidly growing field. 'With the science and understanding of psychedelic substances expanding exponentially in recent years, we're honored to welcome some of the world's top academic researchers to PS2025 so they can share this new knowledge with attendees from around the globe.'— Philippe Lucas, Ph.D., Director, Research & Safe Access, MAPS The Science, Studies, and Trials tracks will feature both senior research leaders as well as emerging voices from public and private universities throughout North America, as well as international institutions in the UK, Europe, and Latin America. This highly anticipated convergence allows scientists to engage deeply about hot topics, including durability of efficacy, safety and risk, placebo dynamics, the role of psychotherapy, transdiagnostic effects, precision psychiatry, biological mechanisms, novel compounds, and the role of government grants and private capital in innovation. Visit to view the full schedule, register for workshops, and explore hotel and travel options. Workshop spaces are limited and available on a first-come basis. Featured sessions in the Science, Studies, and Trials tracks include:20 Years of Human Neuroscience Research with PsychedelicsDavid Nutt, Ph.D., reflects on two decades of pioneering work using brain imaging and neuropharmacology to explore consciousness, depression, and psychedelic mechanisms of action. Psychedelic Frontiers at the National Institutes of Health: NIH-funded Studies, Research Opportunities, and PrioritiesJoin a conversation moderated by Stacy Fischer, M.D., featuring Michael Bogenschutz, M.D., and Patrick Finan, Ph.D., as they unpack the latest NIH-funded studies, explore future research opportunities, and discuss the evolving priorities shaping this rapidly growing field of psychedelic-assisted therapy. Frontiers in Psilocybin Research for OCD: Neural Mechanisms, Treatment Response, and Clinical ImplicationsIn a session moderated by Jamila Hokanson, M.D., Ben Kelmendi, M.D., and Terence Ching, Ph.D., explore cutting-edge research on psilocybin's neural effects, clinical outcomes, and its potential as a treatment for OCD. Studies of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy for Addiction DisordersJoin a conversation with Matthew Johnson, Ph.D., and Rayyan Zafar, Ph.D., moderated by Peter Hendricks, Ph.D., for a discussion on the latest research into the use of psychedelics as tools to treat addiction. This session will explore emerging evidence, clinical insights, and the challenges and promises of integrating psychedelic-assisted therapy into addiction treatment frameworks. Psychedelic Therapy for Military Veterans: A New Paradigm of Healing the Wounds of WarModerated by Chris Stauffer, M.D., and featuring Allie Kaigle, PharmD, BCPP, Amy Lehrner, Ph.D., and Leslie Morland, Psy.D., this session examines how psychedelic-assisted therapies are reshaping the landscape of care for Veterans grappling with PTSD, depression, and moral injury. By combining cutting-edge research with lived experience, these experts reveal how these innovative therapies can unlock hope, resilience, and lasting healing for those who have Outcomes from a Trial of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Major Depressive DisorderIn this presentation, Alan K. Davis, Ph.D., shares groundbreaking findings from a long-term follow-up study examining the sustained effects of psilocybin-assisted therapy for individuals with major depressive disorder and what these results mean for the future of psychedelic treatments in mental health care. Ayahuasca: Bridging Molecular and Clinical Insights – A Multidisciplinary PanelDráulio Araújo, Ph.D., moderates a conversation with Fernanda Palhano-Fontes, Ph.D., Marcelo Falchi Parra Carvalho Silva, M.D., and Marcelo Leite, Ph.D., on the multifaceted world of ayahuasca through a unique convergence of molecular research, clinical practice, and traditional wisdom. The conversation offers insights into ayahuasca's molecular mechanisms and its applications in healing trauma and supporting personal growth. Developing Ibogaine for Opioid Use Disorder: Bridging Science, Public Benefit, and Sacred RootsSusan Ousterman moderates a conversation with Jeremy Weate, Ph.D., Ryan Rich, and Peter Hendricks, Ph.D., on the journey of ibogaine from traditional medicine to modern addiction therapy. Together, they'll explore clinical advancements, regulatory challenges, and how to ethically integrate indigenous knowledge and practices to address the opioid epidemic. Improving Standardization and Reducing Bias in Psychedelic Drug Development Trials Using an AI-Enabled PlatformJennifer Tippett, Psy.D., and Danielle Schlosser, Ph.D., discuss how artificial intelligence can transform psychedelic research by improving standardization, reducing bias, and enhancing data quality in clinical trials. Discover how this innovative approach is shaping the next generation of rigorous, ethical, and effective psychedelic drug development. The Potential for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Conflict-Affected Populations: Ukraine and the BalkansModerated by Tadeusz Hawrot and featuring Oksana Gryshchenko, Elise Wilson, Zina Besirevic, Ph.D., and Galyna Pidpruzhnykova, Ph.D., this panel explores how psychedelic-assisted therapies might offer pathways to healing for individuals and communities affected by war and Differences in Therapeutic Outcomes Between Synthetic Psilocybin and Whole Psilocybe Mushrooms: A Qualitative StudyJoin Pamela Kryskow, M.D., and Joseph La Torre, Ph.D., as they present their qualitative study exploring the participants' lived experiences and perceptions, offering a deeper understanding of how these distinct forms of psilocybin influence healing, integration, and personal transformation. The Unique Challenges and Potential for Studying Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy for Palestinians and Jews in IsraelModerated by Keren Tzarfaty, Ph.D., MFT, and featuring Adar Avnon, Sidi Ronen, Ph.D., and Clinical Psychologist Wasim Biroumi, this session dives into the promise and complexities of researching psychedelic-assisted therapy in the unique socio-political landscape of Israel. The panel will discuss how shared trauma and cultural dynamics shape therapeutic approaches and the role psychedelics may play in fostering healing, understanding, and resilience across Outcomes from Yale's Real-World Psilocybin Trial: Connecticut-Funded Pioneering Psychedelic Therapy Program and Insights from Other State InitiativesJesse MacLachlan and Gabrielle Agin-Liebes, Ph.D., share findings from Yale's groundbreaking psilocybin trial, the first state-funded psychedelic therapy program in the U.S. This session will examine the transdiagnostic benefits observed in real-world settings and highlight key insights from Connecticut's initiative alongside other state-led programs shaping the future of psychedelic-assisted Critical Periods and Cephalopods: A Conversation with Neuroscientist Dr. Gül DölenJoin Gül Dölen, M.D., Ph.D., and Amy Emerson for a fascinating conversation that spans critical periods in brain development and the remarkable learning abilities of cephalopods. This session will illuminate the connections between these insights and the potential of psychedelics to re-open windows of plasticity in the adult brain. Listening to Lead: How a Community-Informed Psilocybin Study is Guiding New Mexico's Regulated ModelCrystal Romero, Janus Herrera, Dara Menashi, Ph.D., Larry Leeman, M.D., and Hanifa Nayo Washington (moderator) explore how New Mexico's historic Senate Bill 219 is paving the way for the nation's first state-regulated medical psilocybin program. This panel spotlights the community-informed pilot study by the Psychedelic Health Equity Initiative (PHEI), designed to center equity, accessibility, and culturally attuned care for underserved communities. Expanding the Lens: Mechanisms, Models & Modes - Transdiagnostic Potential of Psychedelic MedicinesJoin Charles Nichols, Ph.D., and Robin Carhart-Harris, Ph.D., as they unpack the unique mechanisms and models of action that position psychedelics as potential transdiagnostic treatments by addressing shared root causes across conditions. Treating Care Providers and Long COVID with Psychedelic-Assisted TherapyAnthony Back, M.D., moderates a vital discussion with Lawrence Purpura, M.D., Ph.D., Benjamin Lewis, M.D., Kush Bhatt, M.D., and Saleena Subaiya, M.D., on the emerging promise of psychedelic-assisted therapy to help those suffering from long COVID and the burnout experienced by care providers. This session will share clinical updates, innovative approaches, and new possibilities for fostering healing for those on the front lines of care. A Machine Learning Perspective on Psychedelics and PsychopathologyArthur Juliani, Ph.D., shares how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing clinical trial design, protocol optimization, and predictive modeling for psychedelic studies. From Rodents to Humans: Unlocking the Science of Psychedelic-Induced NeuroplasticityModerated by Lindsay Cameron, Ph.D., and featuring Manesh Girn, Ph.D., Max Vargas, Ph.D., and Neil Savalia, M.D./Ph.D(c), this session investigates the limitations of preclinical models in capturing the complexity of human psychedelic experiences and what these challenges mean for the future of psychedelic drug development. Psilocybin Desynchronizes the Human BrainJoin Joshua Siegel, M.D., Ph.D., as he delves into cutting-edge research exploring how psilocybin disrupts established patterns of brain connectivity – unpacking how these transient states of neural desynchronization might illuminate new pathways for therapeutic breakthroughs, and revealing the brain's remarkable flexibility and potential for healing. About Psychedelic SciencePsychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025), hosted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), is the world's leading psychedelic conference. Returning to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver from June 16-20, 2025, this five-day event brings together a global community of scientists, therapists, policymakers, cultural leaders, and advocates to explore the forefront of psychedelic research, therapy, and culture. Facilitated by Superfly, known for producing iconic events such as Bonnaroo and Outside Lands, PS2025 will feature expert speakers; hands-on workshops; community events with art, music, and mindfulness activities; and scholarship opportunities to support broad participation. Since its inception in 2010, the Psychedelic Science conference series has fostered knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and community-building within the psychedelic ecosystem. Join thousands of attendees as we explore the transformative potential of psychedelics and shape the future of mental health, policy, and cultural understanding. For more information and registration details, visit and follow us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook. ABOUT MAPSFounded in 1986, MAPS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research and educational organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics and marijuana. MAPS' conference flagship, Psychedelic Science, has been the leading convening of the psychedelic community since 2010. MAPS incubated Lykos Therapeutics, a drug-development public benefit company, and the Zendo Project, a leader in psychedelic harm reduction. Since MAPS was founded, philanthropic donors and grantors have given more than $150 million to advance research, change drug policy, and evolve education in the field of psychedelics. CONTACTmedia@ while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Participants needed in clinical trials to advance Alzheimer's disease research
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – About 112,500 people in South Carolina are living with Alzheimer's disease, according to the Alzheimer's Association. To advance research, more than 50,000 participants are needed in clinical trials examining potential new treatments. Hundreds of thousands are needed in broader dementia research studies. Alzheimer's Association TrialMatch is a free, easy-to-use service that connects interested individuals living with Alzheimer's and other dementias, caregivers, and healthy volunteers with appropriate trials. Experts believe there isn't a single cause of Alzheimer's, and research shows that adopting healthy habits can improve brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline, according to the Alzheimer's Association. They suggest proactively taking care of brain health, which includes challenging the mind, getting regular exercise, protecting the head from injuries, living a smoke-free life, controlling blood pressure, eating healthier foods, and getting quality sleep. 'We want people to know there are steps they can take to keep their brains healthy. We also want to encourage anyone experiencing memory or thinking problems to talk to their doctor. There are many possible causes — and if it is Alzheimer's disease, there are numerous benefits to getting a timely diagnosis,' said Ashton Houghton, executive director of Alzheimer's Association, South Carolina chapter. To get a timely diagnosis, the Alzheimer's Association lists some of the early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's. Some include memory loss that disrupts daily life, challenges in planning or solving problems, difficulty completing familiar tasks, confusion with time or place, trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships, new problems with words in speaking or writing, changes in mood and personality. Those interested can volunteer with the Alzheimer's Association to help those in the community take steps to reduce their dementia risk and recognize the signs of Alzheimer's, and can find volunteer opportunities on their website. June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Elysium Therapeutics' Investor Webcast Highlights "Fentanyl Rebound" as Key Challenge in Reducing Opioid Overdose Hospitalizations and Deaths
Elysium's Synthetic Opioid Overdose Prevention and Reversal (SOOPR™) technology designed specifically to combat oral fentanyl overdose LYONS, Colo., June 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Elysium Therapeutics, an emerging biopharmaceutical company developing treatments specifically designed to rescue and reverse overdoses caused by oral opioids, including synthetic opioids like fentanyl, recently hosted a webcast to educate investors and pharmaceutical leaders on the pressing need to develop overdose rescue therapies designed specifically for synthetic opioids, like fentanyl. Entitled, "Innovating Solutions to Combat Fentanyl Rebound" and led by Greg Sturmer, CEO, the presentation noted that short-acting opioid antagonists like Narcan® and Opvee® are frequently ineffective in the management of synthetic opioid overdoses1, with 20 to 45% of overdose victims initially rescued with naloxone experiencing a re-narcotization event. Sturmer commented: "When fentanyl is taken orally, individuals can face a danger zone, a period of respiratory depression that can last six to eight hours, which far outlasts the window provided by currently available rescue agents that only last, at most, 30 minutes. The result is nearly half of those initially given a dose of today's rescue medications experience a rebound or re-narcotization event, which can lead to a hypoxic brain injury, cardiovascular toxicity or death." To address this critical shortcoming, Elysium designed its Synthetic Opioid Overdose Prevention and Reversal (SOOPR™) technology to be both faster acting and with the potential to offer overdose protection out to approximately 24-hours. Additionally, Elysium designed SOOPR with an intramuscular route of administration, which grants more reliable dosing, in comparison to intranasal administration, which can lead to partial and uncertain dosing in high stress settings. Sturmer added: "SOOPR was designed specifically for synthetic opioids, which are now the number one killer of adults aged 18 to 45 in the U.S. The need for a rapid-acting, long-duration reversal agent, such as SOOPR, is extreme given its potential to reduce the likelihood of hypoxic brain injury, cardiovascular events, re-narcotization, and death. Recognizing this opportunity, Elysium is planning to rapidly advance the SOOPR clinical program along a timeline that could enable the technology to reach the market in the next two to three years." About SOOPR™ (Synthetic Opioid Overdose Prevention and Rescue) SOOPR (Synthetic Opioid Overdose Prevention and Reversal) is a rapid-onset, long-acting rescue agent specifically designed to address overdose from synthetic opioids, including oral fentanyl. SOOPR utilizes a proprietary long-acting naloxone reversal formulation with faster onset kinetics versus Narcan® delivered via long-acting injection (LAI) technology. The technology is designed to rapidly restore respiration and provide 18 – 24 hours of effective opioid blockade to minimize the risk of re-narcotization, while also providing protection from same-day re-use of opioids. SOOPR has been endorsed by first responders and OUD treatment professionals as the effective solution urgently needed to address the global opioid overdose epidemic. About Elysium Therapeutics Elysium is an emerging biopharmaceutical company developing treatments specifically designed to rescue and reverse overdoses caused by oral synthetic opioids, including fentanyl. Elysium is working to establish new standards of safety in the opioid industry by developing SMART™ (Safer Medicines Alleviate Risks and Trauma) products, first- and best-in-class medicines that address the limitations and dangers associated with opioids and overdose rescue agents to reduce suffering from opioid-use disorder, opioid overdose, and acute pain. Elysium's lead technology, SOOPR™ (Synthetic Opioid Overdose Prevention and Reversal), is a long-acting opioid antagonist specifically designed to address oral synthetic opioid, including fentanyl, overdose. Tens of thousands of unnecessary overdose deaths each year exemplifies the critical shortcomings of currently available rescue agents, including naloxone and nalmefene. In addition, Elysium is developing oral-overdose protected (O2P™) hydrocodone for the treatment of moderate-to-severe acute pain. For more information, please visit ContactTiberend Strategic Advisors, IncInvestors Media David Irish Casey McDonald (231) 632-0002 (646) 577-8520 dirish@ cmcdonald@ ¹ Rachael Rzasa Lynn and JL Galinkin Ther Adv Drug Saf 2018, Vol. 9(1) 63–88. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Elysium Therapeutics Sign in to access your portfolio
