Durham health has reported that in 2020, paramedics administered Narcan 172 times. Durham health recognizes that the opioid crisis is a complex public health issue, as such, they have resources for opioid info, Narcan kits & where to get help.
There are many factors that have led to an increase in opioid-related overdoses. This includes high rates of opioid prescribing and the presence of strong opioids in the illegal drug supply – such as fentanyl.
Since 2003, the number of emergency department visits due to an opioid overdose in Durham Region increased from 160 to 389 visits in 2017.
The number of Durham Region opioid related deaths increased from 18 in 2013 to 58 deaths by 2017 (Ontario Agency for Health Protection and Promotion [Public Health Ontario], 2018).
Opioids are prescription drugs that are usually prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. Other uses include controlling coughs and diarrhea. For some people, opioids can cause euphoria or a “high” which can make them addictive.
There are many different types of opioids that can range in strength. Common opioids include:
- Fentanyl
- Oxycodone
- Hydromorphone
- Morphine
- Codeine (found in Tylenol 2, Tylenol 3, Tylenol 4)
- Methadone
- Heroin
Opioids come in many different forms such as:
- Tablets or capsules
- Skin patches
- Syrups
- Liquid for injection
- Nasal spray
Durham health advises that you do not take medication that has not been specifically prescribed for you.
All types of opioids have a risk of overdose, which can lead to respiratory distress (having trouble breathing).
An overdose on opioids can include any of these signs or symptoms:
- Not waking up
- Limp body
- Slow or no breathing
- Blue lips and nails
- Cold skin
- Very small pupils
- Choking or throwing up
- Snoring or gurgling
An overdose is a medical emergency. If you think someone has overdosed on opioids, call 911 immediately. Even if naloxone was given, call 911 as naloxone may wear off and overdose symptoms can return.
5 steps to save a life:
- Shout (their name) and shake (their shoulders)
- Call 9-1-1 (if they do not respond)
- Give naloxone (1 spray into nostril or inject 1 vial or ampoule into arm or leg)
- Perform chest compressions and/or rescue breathing
- Is it working? (if no improvements after 2-3 minutes, repeat steps 3 and 4).
- Stay with them as naloxone may wear off and overdose symptoms can return.
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