Opioid overdose spike alert in Lorain County
Unusually high rates of opioid overdoses occurred locally on Feb. 24, 2023, according to Lorain County Public Health (LCPH) – based on data from emergency departments.
“Have naloxone with you if you use drugs or if you have a loved one who uses,” said Mark Adams, MPH, REHS, health commissioner at LCPH.
Street drugs and any drugs not prescribed to you may contain deadly amounts of fentanyl – fake pills sold as Adderall, Xanax, and oxycodone. Fentanyl is being mixed with all street drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin. Fentanyl is dangerous – it cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine.
Do your part to help curb the opioid crisis:
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Carry naloxone to help stop and reverse an opioid overdose - order and get trained for free.
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Find naloxone pick-up locations in Lorain County at bit.ly/3M0cvb3.
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Have a kit mailed to you in 1-3 business days, order online at bit.ly/3phnx1X.
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Pick up a kit at Lorain County Public Health at 9880 Murray Ridge Rd, Elyria.
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Keep prescription medications safe - order a free medication safe and/or a disposal bag.
If you use drugs:
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Never use alone. Call 1-800-484-3731. An operator will stay on the line and call emergency services if you don't respond.
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Visit the Harm Reduction Clinic at The Nord Center. Exchange syringes, pick up fentanyl testing strips, and get support.
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When you’re ready to ask for help, call 1-800-888-6161 (hotline for the Mental Health, Addiction & Recovery Services Board).