Overdose deaths have diminished somewhat from their historic rise recently, but the opioid epidemic is a major public health problem affecting individuals, families, and communities across the country. It cannot be forgotten or put on the ‘back burner,’ and deserves our full and devoted attention.
At TreatmentRehabCenters.org we believe there are ways to help stop opioid overdoses and save lives.
This resource and guide will provide you with information and strategies to how to prevent opioid overdose; whether you use opioids, are a loved one of someone who uses opioids, or are a concerned community member.
An opioid overdose occurs when someone takes more opioids than their body can handle. This can cause slow or stopped breathing which can be fatal if not addressed quickly.
Opioids include illegal drugs like heroin and prescription painkillers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl.
Knowing the signs of an opioid overdose is key to intervention. Look for:
The opioid overdose epidemic in the U.S. has changed a lot over the years, with a big increase in deaths involving synthetic opioids, especially fentanyl.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drug overdose deaths have skyrocketed to a record 93,331 deaths in 2020. This is a dire situation and we need effective solutions.
The CDC reports that overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids, excluding methadone, increased 103-fold from 1999 to 2020. This is a huge jump and shows how dangerous synthetic opioids are in today’s drug landscape.
Overdose deaths from psychostimulants with abuse potential, mostly methamphetamine, increased 64-fold during the same period.
Cocaine overdose deaths increased 7.6-fold and prescription opioid deaths increased 4.1-fold. Heroin deaths are still a big problem and increased 2.5-fold from 1999 to 2020.
These numbers show the changing face of the opioid crisis and the need for comprehensive prevention and intervention to address synthetic opioids and other substances.
If you use opioids follow these safe use practices to reduce your risk of overdose:
Naloxone (often called Narcan) is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose in minutes.
If you have prescription opioids:
If you’re struggling with opioid use:
Communities can do a lot:
Harm reduction can reduce overdose deaths:
Making treatment more accessible can prevent overdoses:
Some groups are more at risk of opioid overdose:
Fentanyl has become so prevalent in the drug supply that overdose risk has skyrocketed:
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid use disorder or substance use disorder, seek help from a provider or treatment center. SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7/365 service that provides referrals to local treatment centers, support groups, and community organizations.
Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889.
You can also use the online treatment locator to find help near you and the HELP4U text messaging service to text your zip code to 435748 to find resources near you.
Improving opioid prescribing and reducing prescription drug abuse is key to preventing opioid overdose deaths. Carrying naloxone, a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose, can save lives. Family and friends can support individuals with opioid use disorder or substance use disorder.
We need to address the stigma around these conditions so people will seek help.
Having health insurance can increase access to health care and reduce fatal opioid overdose risk. Properly disposing of unused drugs can prevent prescription drug abuse and overdose risk.
Educating providers about substance use disorder and opioid use disorder can improve treatment outcomes. Addressing the root causes of substance abuse (poverty and lack of access to healthcare) can reduce overdose risk.
We can beat the overdose crisis together. Remember, recovery is possible and every life saved from overdose is an opportunity for healing and transformation.
Healthcare providers have a key role in overdose prevention:
Preventing opioid overdoses requires a whole person, whole community, whole system approach. By using safely, increasing access to naloxone, educating and resourcing, and addressing the underlying factors that contribute to opioid use we can save lives and make progress on the opioid crisis.
On an individual level, knowing the resources outlined above, and the process for helping someone who may be suffering from an accidental overdose, is vital. Be prepared with naloxone and stay informed!
At TreatmentRehabCenters.org we support individuals and communities in preventing opioid overdoses and getting treatment for opioid use disorder.
If you or someone you know is at risk of opioid overdose don’t wait to get help, whether by calling us or reaching out elsewhere, get support for recovery today.
Our website is intended for educational and informational usage only, it does not and will not render medical advice. The resources provided aim to support and not replicate or replace direct patient and healthcare provider interactions. See Full Site Disclaimer.
TreatmentRehabCenters.org’s helpline is an offering from longtime behavioral health professionals to those struggling with substance use disorders and/or mental health disorders and their loved ones to help find effective care options.
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