Annual publication of drug-related death statistics 2025
Phillip Heaton, Lead Officer, Falkirk Alcohol and Drug Partnership said: “Every drug-related death is a tragedy, and one that in many cases can be prevented.
“Across Falkirk, we are committed to ensuring people can access help as early as possible, reducing harm and supporting recovery. These latest figures highlight the continuing impact that alcohol and drugs have on individuals, families and communities.
“They remind us that tackling harm is everyone’s responsibility, whether that’s through supporting a loved one, challenging stigma, or helping people access the support they need. Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to seeking help. It can prevent people from reaching out for support and influence how communities respond to substance use.
“Working alongside people with lived experience, we are shaping services that meet local needs. Through initiatives such as our naloxone programme, harm reduction work and rehabilitation support, we are helping people stay safe and build positive futures.
“By working together with our communities and partners, we can continue to reduce drug-related harm and improve lives across Falkirk.”
Head of vital events statistics for National Records of Scotland, Phillipa Haxton, said: “The number of drug use deaths in Scotland is below the peak of 2020 but still the sixth highest year on record. Deaths among males drove the latest increase. The number of deaths among females is at its lowest since 2017.
“More than one drug was implicated in 78% of drug use deaths. The drugs most commonly implicated in deaths continue to be opiates or opioids, cocaine and benzodiazepines. In 2025 there was an increase of 23% in cases where cocaine was implicated in deaths compared to 2024.”
Background
The statistics show 1,133 people died in Scotland due to drug misuse in 2025. This is an increase of 11% (156 deaths) compared with 2024. There was a 19% increase in drug use deaths in males and a 5% decrease in females compared to 2024. The average age at death was 46.
In Falkirk, 36 people died to drug misuse in 2025, a increase of 15 deaths from 2024.
If you are a journalist covering these statistics in the media, please consider following the recommendations in Reporting of Substance Toolkit created by Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs and Adfam.