Nabarun Dasgupta

Adam Conover speaks with Dr. Nabarun Dasgupta about the complex history of fentanyl and the opioid crisis. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding the epidemic, challenges of addiction, regional differences in fentanyl contamination, and the power of consumer pushback. Also explored are the historical connections and cultural significance of drugs, as well as successful interventions in reducing overdose death rates.

Nabarun Dasgupta, a street drug scientist with two decades in overdose prevention, joins Kaylee McLeod, director of Philadelphia's overdose response unit, and Aneri Patani, a senior correspondent focusing on mental health and addiction. They discuss the recent 27% drop in overdose deaths, attributed to public health initiatives and naloxone accessibility. The conversation dives into federal funding challenges, demographic disparities in overdoses, and effective harm reduction strategies, emphasizing the need for empathy and community support in tackling the ongoing crisis.

Nabarun Dasgupta, a senior scientist at the University of North Carolina, dives into the recent FDA approval for over-the-counter Narcan nasal spray. He highlights how making this life-saving medication accessible can empower community members to act as first responders. The conversation addresses the stigma around naloxone, its affordability, and the broader implications for the opioid epidemic. Dasgupta emphasizes the need for compassionate support and education to truly combat the rising tide of overdose deaths.