- Overdose deaths nationwide have quadrupled since 1980. More overdose deaths are caused by prescription drugs than all illegal drugs combined. Opioid drugs are important medications for the treatment of pain, opioid dependence, and terminal illness. But, these drugs also have the potential to produce physical dependence, abuse, and addiction. Opioid drugs include heroin as well as medications available by prescription such as oxycodone and methadone. This major health concern affects a diverse group of individuals, across all categories of race, class and geography.
Every year, 16,000 people die of accidental opioid overdose, but most opioid overdose deaths are preventable!
Do you use opioids yourself (prescribed or not) or are you worried about someone who does? The following information will help you avoid an overdose or support someone else who might be at risk.
Materials to Print
- Overdose Prevention and Response Card
- Prescription Pain Pills – Patient/Caregiver Education
General Information including opioid basics, signs of addiction, safety tips, and signs of an overdose. - Patient Overdose Prevention Education
Overdose-specific information on prevention, signs of an overdose, and response steps.
More Information