Pediatric clinics of North America
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Although recent spikes in overdose deaths are largely attributable to heroin and fentanyl, prescription opioids still account for a significant percentage of overdose deaths. Additionally, overdose deaths are not a problem solely for adults; roughly 8% of all overdose deaths occur in persons aged 15 to 24. In addition to identifying factors that increase risk for misuse and negative outcomes among adolescents, research must examine the causal mechanisms that link these factors to increased risk. Finally, the extant research must serve as the foundation for prevention/intervention strategies and identify treatments that are effective among adolescents with opioid use disorders.