Learning signs of opioid overdose could save a life

AUSTIN, Texas – Between Monday and Wednesday last week, nine people died in what officials termed Austin’s deadliest opioid overdose outbreak in nearly a decade.

Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services responded to 75 overdose cases from Monday to Wednesday evening, the American-Statesman reported.

There are defensive and preventive measures people can take to stop an overdose. Here’s what to know:

According to the American Society of Anesthesiologist, opioids are a class of drugs that includes both natural and synthetic substances.

Some examples: Morphine, codeine, fentanyl, oxycodone (e.g., OxyContin, Percocet), hydrocodone (e.g., Vicodin, Norco) and heroin.

What are the signs of an opioid overdose?

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are signs to indicate if someone is near overdosing on opioids. It’s imperative to call 911 or seek medical care for the individual and not leave that person alone. Signs of an overdose could be:

● Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”

● Falling asleep or loss of consciousness

● Slow, shallow breathing

● Choking or gurgling sounds

● Limp body

● Pale, blue or cold skin

What is Narcan?

Narcan is a brand name for naloxone, which is a medication used to rapidly reverse opioid overdose.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, it works by binding to the same opioid receptors in the brain that opioids bind to.

Steps to avoid or reduce chance of opioid overdose

The CDC recommends the following steps to reduce injury from opioid use disorder:

● Carry naloxone: Obtain naloxone from a pharmacy or community health center and learn how to administer it properly.

● Create a safety plan: Identify triggers and high-risk situations, and establish strategies to prevent overdose.

● Know your limits: Understand your tolerance to opioids and never exceed recommended dosages.

● Dispose of unused medications safely: Take advantage of drug takeback programs or follow FDA guidelines for at-home disposal.

● Utilize harm reduction strategies: Consider alternatives to opioid medications, such as non-opioid pain management techniques.

● Stay informed about opioid trends: Understand the prevalence of potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl.

● Advocate for policy change: Get involved in community initiatives and support organizations working to combat the opioid crisis.

Austin American-Statesman reporter Bianca Moreno-Paz contributed to this report.