Overdose Prevention
Foundations Health offers a number of strategies to prevent opioid overdoses. These include access to medications that reduce or eliminate cravings to use opioids as well as overdose reversal medications. Our program offers awareness and education for patients, their families and the community. We are strong supporters of harm reduction and peer and community support services as well.
What is an opioid overdose?
An opioid overdose happens when someone takes too much of an opioid drug, like heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone or methadone, and their breathing slows down or stops. Opioids affect the brain and body by slowing down breathing and heart rate. In an overdose, this can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage or death if not treated quickly.
Signs of an opioid overdose include:
- Very slow or no breathing
- Blue or gray lips and fingertips
- No response when you call their name or rub their chest
- Unconsciousness or inability to wake up
What is overdose reversal?
Overdose reversal means stopping the effects of the overdose before it becomes deadly. This is most often done with a nasal spray and can be administered by anyone, even without training. There are a number of brands of these medications on the market. These medications can quickly block the effects of opioids on the brain and restore normal breathing within minutes.
Opioid overdoses are a leading cause of accidental death, but with naloxone and quick action, lives can be saved. Anyone can carry naloxone, and many communities give it out for free or with a prescription.
Reach Out for Help Today
If you or a loved one needs help with an opioid use disorder and mental health symptoms, please reach out to Foundations Health today. We are here to connect you to the appropriate care you need.
We can provide a no-cost assessment and connect you to the right care for you. Call Foundations Health at 336-899-8889 and start your journey to a better life today.
In case of a mental health crisis, CALL 988 or seek the nearest emergency room.
For physical health emergencies, CALL 911 or seek the nearest emergency room.
