A major new study is changing what we know about meth addiction in Washington state. People who use drugs are increasingly smoking rather than injecting and meth remains by far the most commonly used substance.
For Washington residents and their families, understanding these trends can be the first step toward finding help.
How Drug Use Patterns Are Changing in Washington
For years, syringe-services programs, also called needle exchanges, were built around injection drug use. But a 2025 survey of nearly 1,700 clients at 24 of these programs across Washington found a dramatic reversal.
In 2021, 93% of respondents reported injecting drugs. By 2025, that number had dropped to 44%, while 90% reported smoking drugs in the previous week.
The survey, published by the University of Washington’s Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute, tracks drug-use behaviors, housing and service needs among some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.
Washington has roughly 40 syringe-services programs statewide, run by nonprofits and local health departments. They provide safe-use supplies, naloxone (an overdose-reversal medication) and connections to health and treatment services.
Meth Addiction in Washington State Remains the Top Concern
Methamphetamine is still the most widely used drug among survey participants, with 90% reporting meth use. Fentanyl came in second at 58%, followed by cannabis (50%), alcohol (26%), crack or cocaine (26%) and heroin (9%).
Meth is a powerful stimulant that speeds up the central nervous system. Signs of meth addiction include extreme weight loss, sores on the skin, paranoia, inability to sleep and severe dental problems (often called “meth mouth”).
People addicted to meth may also seem agitated, hyperactive or disconnected from reality. Over time, meth use can cause lasting damage to the brain and body.
The survey also found a strong connection between meth use and homelessness. Three out of four respondents were unhoused or had unstable housing.
Lead researcher Caleb Banta-Green of UW Medicine noted that many people use meth because they are homeless, not the other way around. Addressing housing instability, he said, is often a critical part of reducing substance use.
Fentanyl Addiction Signs and Risks in Washington
With more than half of survey respondents reporting fentanyl use, the drug continues to pose a major threat across Washington state.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid estimated to be many times more potent than heroin. Signs of fentanyl addiction include extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, confusion, pinpoint pupils and loss of consciousness.
Even a small amount can cause a fatal overdose, which is why naloxone access through programs like syringe services is considered lifesaving.
What Washington Residents Want from Addiction Treatment
The survey showed that the vast majority of people using illicit drugs want to stop. Among the findings: Roughly three-quarters of respondents expressed interest in services to improve their physical health, and about 70% wanted mental health support.
More than half wanted access to drug-testing services, and over 40% expressed interest in methadone as an opioid treatment medication. Many meth users also reported wanting medications to help reduce stimulant use.
These numbers point to a clear gap between the demand for addiction treatment and access to it. For Washington families worried about a loved one, knowing that most people who use drugs want help can make conversations about treatment feel less daunting.
Finding Addiction Treatment Centers in Washington State
If you or someone you love is struggling with meth addiction in Washington state or showing signs of fentanyl addiction, treatment is available.
There are addiction treatment centers near you that offer medically supervised detox, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), mental health services, and long-term recovery support.
Search Addictions.com directory for rehab centers in your area or call
800-681-1058
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