WPSU’s Health Minute is a collaboration with Penn State’s College of Nursing.
The death rate from opioid overdose in the United States is more than six times what it was 20 years ago, for a total of nearly half a million deaths. You can become an advocate for prevention of opioid overdoses and death.
Pay attention to family members and friends who mention ongoing pain issues and seeing more than one doctor. Speak to them about pain management options and resources within your community.
Learn what types of drugs lead to addiction and overdose. Drugs such as oxycontin, vicodin, morphine, and fentanyl can sometimes be prescribed for pain.
You can make a difference through community involvement to make overdose reversal drugs more available, or by supporting proven rehabilitation programs in your area.
For more information, visit cdc.gov
