Opioid Awareness
STAY TUNED FOR MORE INFORMATION
Our recent Drug Take Back Days were a success!!
We were able to collect a total of 183 pounds of medications.
What Are Opioids?
An opioid is a strong prescription pain medication.
Common names of opioids:
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco)
- Oxycodone (Percocet, OxyContin)
- Morphine
- Codeine
- Fentanyl
- Tramadol (Ultram)
- Methadone
Risks Of Use
Anyone can become addicted to opioids, even if prescribed by a physician. You are at higher risk of developing a dependence or an addiction to opioids if you:
- Have a history of depression or anxiety.
- Have a history of using or abusing alcohol, tobacco, or drugs.
- Have a history of long term (chronic) pain.
- Take opioids for longer than a week.
- Take more pills, more often, than what is prescribed.
Over-using your opioids puts you at high risk of dependence, addiction, and even overdose.
Acute Pain Management
There are alternative options for pain management other than opioids.
- Talk with your doctor about your pain treatment before you begin any kind of pain regimen.
- There are over the counter medications that may be just as effective as opioids, without the side effects.
- You may also try physical therapy, massage, relaxation techniques, meditation, and even music.
- It is important to know the facts and make an informed decision before using opioids for your pain.
Safety And Storage
Safe use and storage of opioid medications is extremely important.If you are prescribed an opioid medication:
- Always take as directed.
- Never take higher doses and only use them for the reason they were prescribed.
- Avoid mixing opioids with alcohol or other drugs.
- They are only for you. Do not share your pills with others.
- Safely store opioids out of reach of infants, children, teens, and pets.
- Lock your pills if possible to prevent misuse by others.
Disposal
To avoid misuse of prescription medications, dispose of any unused pills.
You can drop your unused, unwanted, or expired medications at local Drug Take Back Events.
You may also dispose of them at the Sheriff’s department in either Fountain or Warren County.