Overdose Risk
Overdose is one of the most serious risks for people with opioid use disorder (OUD). Today, overdoses happen more often and more quickly than in the past, especially with fentanyl in the drug supply. Many people who overdose did not plan to die — they were trying to avoid withdrawal or feel normal. Learning the warning signs and knowing how treatment helps can save lives.
What Is An Overdose and How Does It Happen?
An opioid overdose happens when opioids slow breathing too much. When breathing slows or stops, the brain does not get enough oxygen. This can lead to brain injury or death if help does not come in time.
Overdose risk is higher today because of fentanyl use, both intentionally and when it is present in other types of drugs. Fentanyl is up to 50 times stronger than other opioids and known to be very fast-acting. Even people who use opioids every day and have high tolerance can overdose. Overdose risk often increases during times of stress, relapse or life changes.
People with opioid use disorder face many overdose risks, including:
- Using fentanyl or other strong opioids
- Using more than one substance at the same time
- Using alone
- Changes in tolerance after illness, jail or detox
- Physical exhaustion, illness or poor nutrition
Warning Signs of an Opioid Overdose
Opioid overdose is a medical emergency. IF YOU THINK SOMEONE MAY HAVE OVERDOSED, CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY. Administer overdose reversal medication, such as naloxone, if available. Quick action can save lives.
Knowing the warning signs can save a life. Acting quickly matters. Common overdose signs include:
- Breathing that is very slow, shallow or seems to have stopped
- Blue or gray coloring of lips, fingernails or skin
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Individual is unconscious or does not/cannot respond
- Extremely small pupils
Naloxone (Narcan®) and other overdose rescue medications can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose. It works by blocking opioids in the brain and restoring breathing. These medications are safe, easy to use and do not cause harm if opioids are not present. However, even if a rescue medication is used, 911 should still be called.
An overdose is not a sign that treatment has failed or that recovery is impossible. It is a signal that more support is needed. Many people enter treatment after an overdose and go on to live healthy, meaningful lives.
How Treatment Can Lower Overdose Risk
Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) are one of the most effective ways to prevent overdoses. Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), such as methadone and buprenorphine, stabilize the brain and reduce cravings and withdrawal, thus decreasing or preventing further illicit opioid use for many patients.
Using MOUDs such as methadone or buprenorphine can:
- Lower overdose risk
- Reduce illicit opioid use
- Improve survival and reduce other harmful behaviors
- Support long-term recovery
At Foundations Health OTPs, overdose prevention is a core part of care. Care is provided in a nonjudgemental environment. Patients receive:
- Evidence-based medications for opioid use disorder
- Education about overdose risks and warning signs
- Naloxone education and safety planning
- Counseling and ongoing support
- Holistic care to assist you in recovery including psychiatric care
- Peer support groups
You do not have to wait for an overdose to happen to get help. Treatment can reduce risk immediately and support long-term stability. If you or someone you love is at risk for overdose or struggling with opioid addiction, contact a Foundations Health Opioid Treatment Program today. Treatment saves lives.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Overdose prevention.
https://www.cdc.gov/overdose/prevention
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2023). Overdose death rates.
https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/overdose-death-rates
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023). Medications for opioid use disorder (Treatment Improvement Protocol 63).
https://store.samhsa.gov/product/TIP-63-Medications-for-Opioid-Use-Disorder-Full-Document/SMA18-5063FULLDOC
