PRESCRIPTION DRUG/OVER THE-COUNTER ABUSE PREVENTION
The fastest-growing drug problem in the United States isn’t cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamines. It is prescription drugs, and it is profoundly affecting the lives of teenagers.
Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, when taken as directed, are generally safe, however, when taken incorrectly it can cause significant harm. Research suggests that children begin to self-administer medication at age 11. Fueled by the powerful opioid fentanyl, that has been increasing among younger people, drug overdose deaths reached an all-time high of 100,000 Americans from April 2020 - April 2021. Simply put, opioids are destroying people’s lives.
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What Parents can do
Signs of an Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, call 911. An individual can overdose on any opioid – prescription or nonprescription. When trying to determine if someone has overdosed, look for the signs below.
1. Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
2. Falling asleep or loss of consciousness
3. Slow, shallow breathing
4. Choking or gurgling sounds
5. Limp body
6. Pale, blue, or cold skin
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What to do if someone is overdosing
1. Call 911 immediately
2. Administer naloxone/ narcan
3. Try to keep the person awake and breathing
4. Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
5. Stay with him or her until emergency workers arrive.
Signs of an Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, call 911. An individual can overdose on any opioid – prescription or nonprescription. When trying to determine if someone has overdosed, look for the signs below.
1. Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
2. Falling asleep or loss of consciousness
3. Slow, shallow breathing
4. Choking or gurgling sounds
5. Limp body
6. Pale, blue, or cold skin
For more information check out
What to do if someone is overdosing
1. Call 911 immediately
2. Administer naloxone/ narcan
3. Try to keep the person awake and breathing
4. Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
5. Stay with him or her until emergency workers arrive.