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Opioid: a group of pain-relieving medications. They can be made from the poppy plant (like morphine) or in a laboratory (like fentanyl). No matter how they're made, anyone can become addicted to them. https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/overdose-prevention/ #OverdosePrevention
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid approved for treating severe pain, typically cancer pain. However, most recent cases of fentanyl-related harm, overdose, and death in the U.S. are linked to illegally made fentanyl. https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/overdose-prevention/ #OverdosePrevention
Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids—including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications—when given in time. https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/overdose-prevention/ #OverdosePrevention
Comprehensive harm reduction is a set of public services designed to reduce the negative impact of drug use. It helps prevent HIV, HepC, other infections, overdose and death. It may also be called syringe services or needle exchange. https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/overdose-prevention/ #OverdosePreventionNaloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids—including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications—when given in time.
If someone is overdosing, is it too late to act?
No! You can save a life by:
Calling 911
Moving the person onto their side
Administering Naloxone if available
Learn to take action by taking the Virginia REVIVE training: https://dbhds.virginia.gov/behavioral-health/substance-abuse-services/revive/ #OverdosePrevention
Is it easy to spot pills laced with fentanyl?
No! Counterfeit pills are still being spread in the U.S. & they often look identical to legitimate prescription pills. Make sure any prescribed medication you need comes directly from your healthcare provider. #OverdosePrevention
Is there a risk in taking pills that aren’t prescribed by your doctor?
Yes! When you get pills from someone else, it could be laced with substance, like fentanyl. Using a test strip can help determine if a pill is laced with fentanyl. Learn more at: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/overdose-prevention/ #OverdosePrevention