Opioid Overdose Prevention South Boston HOPE Initiative

What is an Opioid? natural opioids (e.g. morphine) Semi-synthetics (e.g. heroin) synthetics with morphine-like action (e.g. codeine, hydromorphone, methadone, oxycodone, meperidine, fentanyl). Medications such as pentazocine and buprenorphine that have both opiate agonist and antagonist effects are also included in this class because their agonist properties produce similar physiological and behavioural effects.

What is an Opioid Overdose? *Opioid induced respiratory depression* Otherwise known as- hypoventilation - a state in which there is a reduced amount of air entering the pulmonary alveoli (decreased alveolar ventilation), which causes an increase in arterial carbon dioxide level. In an opiate overdose, the breathing slows to the point of respiratory arrest where the lack of oxygen to the brain leads to the loss of consciousness, coma, or death

Signs of an overdose Mouth and fingers turning blue Person is unconscious and breathing slowly Does not respond to: - yelling at them - Rubbing the knuckles on the breastbone Weak pulse Extremely small pupils, sometimes as small as the head of a pin ("pinpoint pupils")

At risk for an overdose? Loss of tolerance The first 2 weeks of release from a treatment facility or incarceration. Relapse Mixing – especially alcohol and benzos Using alone Having overdosed before

What should you do? CALL 911! - Give the address or location - Say “my friend is unconscious and I can’t wake them up” or “My friend is not breathing” Rescue breathing Recovery position Adminster Narcan if you have it CALL 911!

What is Narcan? Naloxone is a drug used to counter the effects of opioid overdose, for example heroin or morphine overdose. Naloxone is specifically used to counteract life-threatening depression of the central nervous system and respiratory system. It is marketed under various trademarks including Narcan, Nalone, and Narcanti. Administered either intravenously or intranasal

What NOT to do… Inject person with either saline or milk Throw person in the shower Punch them Shove ice into any part of their body Inject with cocaine or speed

Safety Tips for Users Use one drug at a time, or use less of each drug. Do your heroin first and pace your drinking. Use less when you are sick or took a break from using. Do a tester shot, or split your dope in half and wait. Do a tester shot, release the tourniquet, and try to buy from the same dealer so you have a better idea of what you’re getting. FIX WITH A FRIEND! Develop an overdose plan with your friends or partners, leave the door unlocked or slightly ajar, call someone you trust and have them check on you, and if you do use alone and feel yourself going out, call 911

Best way to avoid an overdose? 100% guarantee not to have an overdose – Actively particpate in recovery.

Questions ?