Dr. Alexa WheelerDr. Alexa Wheeler · 1 min read
Recently, there has been a rise in rates of opioid use disorder (OUD) and opioid-induced overdose deaths in the US in the last several years. This dramatic increase is partially due to the availability of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. Fentanyl and other lab-made opioids can be extremely dangerous due to their high potency, meaning exposure to only a small amount can cause overdose. Notably, intentional opioid use often involves an undervaluing of risk, such that individuals may not perceive themselves as at risk for consequences such as overdose or disease transmission from shared paraphernalia.
It is important to note the resources and measures that can be taken to prevent opioid overdose. Luckily, there are lifesaving medications such as NARCAN, that are widely available. This medication acts at the same receptors that opioids bind to, therefore reversing the effects of opioid-induced overdose. Similarly, FDA-approved medications such as buprenorphine can be used to manage withdrawal symptoms associated with OUD.
For more information on opioid use/OUD rates specific to Texas, see: txopioidresponse.org