Opioid Crisis

Opioid Overdose Fact Sheet (PDF)
Download this PDF from the CDC to learn the Opioid Overdose Basics and what do to in an emergency.
 
Opioid Fact Sheet (PDF)
Understand the risks of taking opioids by downloading this PDF from the CDC.
 
Pain Management – What You Need to Know (PDF)
This PDF from the CDC explains pain management and how to use opioid and other treatments for chronic pain.
 
Consult the CDC website for more helpful information and downloadable fact sheets.

Anyone who uses opioids may be at risk for misuse, abuse or potential overdose. Death from an opioid overdose happens when too much of the drug overwhelms the brain and interrupts the body’s natural drive to breathe.
Some conditions may increase this risk, including, but not limited to:

• Taking high daily dosages of prescription opioids
• Taking more opioids than prescribed
• Combining opioids with alcohol or certain other drugs
• Taking illicit or illegal opioids, like heroin or illicitly-manufactured fentanyl, that could possibly contain unknown or harmful substances
• Certain medical conditions, such as sleep apnea, or reduced kidney or liver function
• Age greater than 65 years old

There have been recent changes to how opioid medications (Oxycodone, OxyContin® hydromorphone, fentanyl, morphine) are used to treat pain.

• In 2017, more than 47,000 Americans died as a result of an opioid overdose, including prescription opioids, heroin, and illicitly manufactured fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid.
• Current research shows that opioids are not as effective for the treatment of chronic pain as previously thought
• Too many prescribed medications end up in the hands of those who are not the intended recipients—including our youth
• It is impossible to know who may be negatively impacted by the use of opioids and painkillers

Actions you can take:

• Ask about non-opioid care for your pain 
• Lock up your medications at all times and safely dispose of left overs 
• Understand and share the fact that providers are now asking patients to sign a controlled substance agreement and undergo drug screenings to assist in keeping our community safe 
• Let your doctor or pharmacist know if you have concerns or problems with misuse of medication

For more information visit the CDC site:

Know Your Options
Prevent Misuse
 

Recognize the signs and act fast. When someone overdoses on opioids, immediate medical attention is critical. Call 911 if you notice any of the following signs: 

• Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
• Falling asleep or loss of consciousness
• Slow, shallow breathing
• Choking or gurgling sounds
• Limp body
• Pale, blue, or cold skin

Learn more about opioids to protect yourself and your loved ones from opioid abuse, addiction, and overdose: www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose
 
Take Action in Case of an Overdose
It may be hard to tell if a person is high or experiencing an overdose. If you aren’t sure, it’s best to treat it like an overdose— you could save a life.

• Call 911 immediately
• Administer naloxone, if available
• Try to keep the person awake and breathing
• Lay the person on their side to prevent choking
• Stay with him or her until emergency workers arrive