Using vital certificates as source documents, this study arrives at an estimate of 5,138 drug-related deaths in the U.S. in 1963 compared to an estimated 9,920 drug-related deaths in 1971. Specific study of the years 1969-71 shows a 36% increase in deaths due to drug dependence, a 42% increase in deaths due to accidental poisoning, a 13% increase in deaths due to suicide by drugs & a 36% increase indrug deaths, undetermined if by accident or suicide.