Understanding and Preventing Opioid Overdose: Insights from the CDC

Opioid overdose remains a critical public health concern in the United States, yet it is largely preventable. At Prevention Awareness Support Services (PASS), we are committed to empowering our communities with knowledge and resources to combat this crisis. We want to share key insights from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on preventing opioid overdose, highlighting actionable strategies and vital information.

The Preventable Nature of Opioid Overdose

The CDC emphasizes that opioid use disorder (OUD) and overdoses are preventable. Overdoses are, tragically, the leading injury-related cause of death in the U.S., with illegally made fentanyl being a primary driver. However, early intervention and prevention activities can significantly reduce the incidence of illegal substance use and misuse of prescription medications.

OUD is a medical condition that can affect anyone, regardless of background. While evidence-based treatments are available, stigma often acts as a significant barrier to seeking help. The CDC highlights that fear of stigma can prevent individuals from sharing their health conditions or seeking necessary services. Reducing this stigma is crucial for effective prevention and treatment programs.

Key Facts from the CDC:

•In 2022, over 107,000 people died from drug overdoses in the U.S., with nearly 76% involving an opioid.

•Counterfeit pills, often containing illegally made fentanyl, have more than doubled in overdose deaths from July 2019 to December 2021.

•For every fatal overdose, many more nonfatal overdoses occur, each with significant emotional and economic tolls.

What You Can Do to Reduce Risk:

•Only take pills prescribed to you by a healthcare professional.

•Be aware that illegally bought pills may contain highly potent and dangerous drugs.

•Utilize fentanyl test strips to detect the presence of fentanyl in various substances.

Promising Prevention Strategies

The CDC outlines several promising strategies to prevent opioid overdose and support community health:

•Improve Opioid Prescribing: Promote and support the use of the CDC Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Pain. Utilize prescription drug monitoring programs to inform clinical practice and protect at-risk individuals.

•Reduce Exposure & Misuse: Learn about the risks of prescription opioids and the dangers of illegally made fentanyl. Resources like CDC’s Rx Awareness campaign provide valuable information.

•Treat Opioid Use Disorder: Increase access to substance use disorder treatment services, including Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). Recovery is possible, and accessible treatment is vital.

•Reverse Overdose: Expand access to naloxone, a life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. Community members and first responders should have access to and training on naloxone administration.

•Implement Evidence-Based Strategies: Support and utilize proven practices that effectively prevent overdose and promote well-being.

Recognizing and Responding to Overdose

Recognizing an opioid overdose can be challenging, but acting quickly can save a life. If you suspect an overdose, it’s always best to treat it as such. Administer naloxone if available, and immediately call 911. Keep the person awake and breathing, and lay them on their side to prevent choking. Do not leave them alone.

Signs of an opioid overdose may include:

•Unconsciousness or inability to awaken.

•Slow or shallow breathing, or difficulty breathing (e.g., choking sounds, gurgling/snoring).

•Discolored skin, especially around the nails or lips.

•Small, constricted "pinpoint pupils" that do not react to light.

Finding Treatment and Support

If you or someone you know needs help for a substance use disorder, resources are available. You can contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or visit their Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator.

For local treatment resources in our area, we encourage you to visit the Allen, Auglaize, & Hardin Counties Mental Health and Recovery Services Board’s website: https://www.wecarepeople.org/agencies

Original Article: For more in-depth information, please refer to the full CDC article: https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/prevention/index.html

At PASS, we believe that by understanding the risks, promoting prevention strategies, and fostering a supportive community, we can collectively work towards a future free from opioid overdose. Your awareness and action make a difference.