The opioid crisis is a serious issue affecting many people across the country. Opioids are powerful pain-relieving drugs, but they can also be very dangerous when misused. Some common opioids include prescription painkillers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl, as well as illegal drugs like heroin. These drugs can be highly addictive and can lead to overdose or even death. Misusing opioids means taking them in a way that is different than the way the doctor prescribed them. This can include taking too much, using someone else’s medication, or taking them for fun instead of pain relief. Misuse can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Addiction: The body gets used to the drug, making it hard to stop taking it.
- Overdose: Taking too much can slow breathing and cause death.
- Health Issues: Long-term use can cause damage to the brain and body.
Safety Tips to Prevent Opioid Misuse
- Only Take Medicine as Prescribed: Never take more than what your doctor recommends.
- Don’t Share Medications: Prescription drugs should only be used by the person they were prescribed for.
- Store Medicine Safely: Keep opioids in a locked cabinet and out of reach of children.
- Dispose of Unused Medicine Properly: Many pharmacies have take-back programs to get rid of unused pills safely
Know the Risks: Understanding the dangers of opioids can help prevent misuse.
