Drug Overdoses Are on the Rise: Here’s What You Need to Know

Drug overdoses are the leading injury-related cause of death in the United States, making them a major public health concern. International Overdose Awareness Day, a global initiative focused on ending overdoses, is August 31st. It's a day to remember and grieve those we've lost to overdose and a way to increase awareness about drug overdose prevention.

An overdose occurs when someone takes a dangerous amount of one or more substances. This can be intentional, as when someone overdoses to harm themselves. An overdose can also be accidental. This is when a person uses a substance that results in unintentional harm.

A Rise in Overdoses

In recent years, there has been a rise in both accidental and intentional overdose deaths related to opioids, or narcotics. The opioid class of drugs includes substances like heroin (an illegally manufactured form of the drug), as well as medications like morphine and oxycodone. Although opioids are used in medical care for the management of pain, sometimes individuals misuse them, resulting in problems with daily life and eventually leading to the development of an addiction.

One opioid of utmost concern is fentanyl, a synthetic opioid. Although fentanyl can be prescribed in limited circumstances, more recently, it has been widely produced and distributed illegally. Fentanyl can be potent and dangerous when misused, putting people at high risk of overdose and death.

During the pandemic, overdose deaths from fentanyl reached a record high, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (SCDAODAS) reports that in 2020, 1,734 people in South Carolina died from a drug overdose. Of those deaths, 1,100 involved fentanyl.

Signs of Overdose

People who overdose on fentanyl or other opioids may:

• Have "pinpoint pupils"
• Appear suddenly drowsy or unconscious
• Have cold or clammy skin
• Have reduced breathing.

It can be challenging to recognize an overdose. The best course of action is to call 911 and then try to keep the person awake and breathing. Do not leave them alone.

Additionally, a lifesaving, Federal Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medication, Naloxone, can often reverse the effects of overdose from opioids. Naloxone is typically administered as a nasal spray. Due to the rise in overdose-related deaths, many first responders now have access to this medication. It can also be purchased over the counter.

Treatment for Substance Use Disorders

Opioid use disorder is a significant health concern. The good news is effective evidence-based treatment is available. At MUSC's Center for Drug and Alcohol Programs (CDAP), patients receive a comprehensive assessment and treatment for substance use disorders.

Services include individual therapy, group treatment and medication-assisted treatment under the supervision of health care professionals. When indicated, inpatient treatment is also recommended.

Mental health concerns can often accompany a substance use disorder. Data shows that more than 50 percent of individuals with an opioid use disorder may also have a mental health concern, such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. For patients who have both a substance use disorder and mental health concerns, it's best to receive comprehensive treatment for both conditions at the same time. CDAP at MUSC offers this treatment.

Overdose Prevention

One of the most important forms of drug overdose prevention is talking to your children and loved ones about medicine misuse. It's important to keep prescription medicines locked away and out of reach for children or those who should not have access to the medication. You can also safely dispose of them at an approved site.

Because opioids carry a risk of misuse and can be harmful, one of the best prevention methods is to talk with your health care team about possible alternatives to opioids or a plan for limiting access to opioid medications long-term.

It is important for anyone struggling with addiction, as well as their families and loved ones, to know that there is help and that they are not alone.

Learn more about CDAP or reach out to the clinic directly by calling 843-792-5200 for more information.