Prescriptions and Opioids
Prescription drugs can be lifesavers. They can also help people manage health problems. At the same time, prescription drugs (Rx) are a leading cause of addiction and accidental overdose deaths throughout the country. In San Diego County, prescription drug deaths outpace deaths due to vehicle crashes.
NCPC urges North County residents to dispose of unused or expired medications safely and properly. The County of San Diego’s Prescription Drug Drop-Off Locator Map helps residents find safe disposal sites.
Fast Facts About Prescription and Opioid Use
Opioids are powerful medicines that block pain signals by attaching to specific receptors in the brain and body. Opioids are highly addictive, which is why it’s important to use them only as prescribed by your doctor. Prescription medications should be locked up and kept away from children and teens. Only the person a medication is prescribed for should take it. Using someone else’s prescription can be unsafe.
Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 100 times stronger than morphine. It is often added to street drugs because it is inexpensive and extremely powerful. Just 2 mg of fentanyl can cause a fatal overdose. Fake pills can look real but may contain fentanyl and be deadly.
Naloxone
Opioid overdoses are life-threatening and can occur even when the medication comes from a licensed pharmacy. Naloxone is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. It is available to the community at no cost through our regional providers. To learn how to get naloxone in your area, contact [email protected].
More Information & Resources
NCPC works in partnership with the San Diego County Substance Use and Overdose Prevention Taskforce to reduce the harms of substance use through collaboration and coordination among community partners.