Erie County Sees Shift in Substances Among Patients Entering Detox
Sandusky, OH – March 23, 2026 – Kaptur Recovery Services (KRS), part of the Erie County Health Department, reports a significant change in the substances being used by individuals seeking detox services. Detox programs at KRS provide medically supervised withdrawal from opioids, alcohol, benzodiazepines, and stimulants, including methamphetamine and cocaine.
While alcohol, fentanyl or fentanyl-contaminated opioids, and methamphetamine remain the most common substances, recent data show a sharp increase in stimulant use. Since 2020, stimulant-related detox admissions have risen from 2.9% to 16.6% in 2025, with year-to-date admissions already at 10.1%.
“Many of the people we serve today use more than one substance,” said Stephanie Salyer, RN, Chief of Behavioral Health at ECHD. “It’s common to see combinations like meth and alcohol, where a stimulant is paired with a depressant. Stimulants like meth are cheaper and easier to obtain than opioids, which now have stricter prescribing controls. This trend, combined with the high relapse rate for stimulant use, presents new challenges for treatment and recovery.”
KRS offers a comprehensive continuum of care beyond detox, including residential treatment, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and medication-assisted treatment (MAT), supporting patients as they transition back into the community.
Kaptur Recovery Services provides evidence-based, compassionate care for individuals seeking recovery from substance use disorders. Services include medically monitored detox, residential treatment, Intensive Outpatient Programs, and MAT. KRS is part of the Erie County Health Department and works in partnership with local organizations to support recovery and wellness in the community. If you or someone you know is struggling, call (419)624-3353.
About Erie County Health Department:
The Erie County Health Department remains dedicated to improving the health and wellness of all residents through accessible, compassionate, and comprehensive healthcare services. ECHD operates the Erie County Community Health Center, the Erie County Detox, Kaptur Rogowski House, and Compass Point, providing adult day services for Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients.
For more information about Health Department or Health Center services, visit www.ErieCoHealthOhio.com.
