Opioids
Opioids are a class of drug that can be prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner but are also found in the street drug supply. Common opioids include heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, codeine, morphine, methadone and hydromorphone.
Opioids can produce euphoria. Some people use them for their ability to produce a “high” or feeling of relaxation. Others may use opioids to prevent them from feeling the effects of withdrawal or “dope sick” from drugs.
Opioid overdose
An opioid overdose happens when a person takes more opioids than their body can handle. Breathing may become irregular and slow, and a person may not respond to stimulation. If someone cannot breathe, or is not breathing enough, the oxygen levels in the blood decrease. This can lead to brain damage, cardiac arrest, and death.
The overdose crisis in B.C.
The overdose crisis in B.C. has been tragically ongoing since 2016. People are losing their loved ones every day from overdose – family, friends, neighbours, and co-workers.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an alarming increase in overdose deaths that has affected every region of the province. Measures taken to slow the spread of COVID-19 have impacted access to harm reduction services and contributed to a street drug supply that has become increasingly dangerous and toxic.
Overdose prevention
If you or someone you know uses drugs, there are proven ways to stay safer and decrease the risk of overdose, like using drugs with a buddy, or carrying Naloxone.
Learn the signs of an opioid overdose – you could help to save a life. Visit StopOverdoseBC.ca to find out more about overdose response and prevention.
If you suspect an overdose, call 9-1-1 right away.
Resources
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Stop Overdose BC
The StopOverdoseBC campaign aims to reduce the stigma around addiction and provide information and resources to help people support their family and friends.<br /><br />Get the facts about common topics surrounding the overdose crisis in BC, learn how to support your loved ones, and find information about treatment and recovery options, naloxone, Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT), and overdose prevention.
Lifeguard App
Provides a free phone app that brings emergency responders to people who may be having an overdose on drugs while alone. Provided in partnership with regional health authorities and Lifeguard Digital Health.<br /><br />The app is activated by the user before they take their dose. If the user doesn't hit a button after a set amount of time, a text-to-voice call will go to 9-1-1, alerting emergency medical dispatchers of a possible overdose.
Overdose Prevention Sites Listings (Toward the Heart)
Locations where people can safely use drugs under supervision of staff trained in emergency response. Services are free.
Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service
Provides a free, confidential phone service for people throughout BC needing help with any kind of substance use concern. Offers information and referral to education and prevention resources, support groups, and a full range of counselling and treatment services. Not a clinical service.
Lifeguard App
Provides a free phone app that brings emergency responders to people who may be having an overdose on drugs while alone. Provided in partnership with regional health authorities and Lifeguard Digital Health.<br /><br />The app is activated by the user before they take their dose. If the user doesn't hit a button after a set amount of time, a text-to-voice call will go to 9-1-1, alerting emergency medical dispatchers of a possible overdose.