The Rise of Prescription Opioids
Prescription opioids can be used to treat moderate-to-severe pain and are often prescribed following surgery or injury, or for health conditions such as cancer.
Common types are oxycodone (oxycontin), hydrocodone (vicodin), morphine, and methadone.

In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of prescription opioids for the treatment of chronic, non-cancer pain, such as back pain or osteoarthritis, despite serious risks and the lack of evidence about their long-term effectiveness.

Anyone who takes prescription opioids can become addicted to them. In fact, as many as one in four patients receiving long-term opioid therapy in a primary care setting struggles with opioid addiction. Once addicted, it can be hard to stop. In 2016, more than 11.5 million Americans reported misusing prescription opioids in the past year.

Opioid Epidemic
Last year, three of every four overdose deaths in Florida involved an opioid. Prescription opioid overdose deaths also often involve benzodiazepines.
Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants used to sedate, induce sleep, prevent seizures, and relieve anxiety. Examples include alprazolam (Xanax®), diazepam (Valium®), and lorazepam (Ativan®).

In addition to the serious risks of addiction, abuse, and overdose, the use of prescription opioids can have a number of side effects, even when taken as directed. Side effects include:

● Tolerance — you might need to take more of the medication for the same pain relief
● Physical dependence — you have symptoms of withdrawal when the medication is stopped
● Low levels of testosterone that can result in lower sex drive, energy, and strength
● Increased sensitivity to pain
● Nausea, vomiting, and dry mouth
● Sleepiness and dizziness
● Itching and sweating
● Constipation
● Confusion
● Depression

Fentanyl Overdoses on the Rise
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid pain reliever. When individuals who develop an opioid addiction can no longer get their supply from a pharmacy or doctor, they may purchase it illegally and can end up taking fentanyl.

Fentanyl is 50-100x more potent than morphine. Most recent cases of harm, overdose and death are linked to illegally made fentanyl. It is often mixed with other drugs as a combination product, often without the user’s knowledge.

Tragically, Fentanyl caused more deaths in Florida in 2019 than cocaine, morphine and heroin combined. Even more, fentanyl-related deaths across Florida surged 700 percent in just five years

What Can Be Done?
To reverse this epidemic, we need to improve the way we treat pain. We must prevent abuse, addiction, and overdose before they start.

You can help people with substance use disorder find the care and treatment they need. To get connected, get answers, and get options, dial 2-1-1.