Prescription Medications

Overdoses involving prescription opioids - such as oxycodone, hydrocodone and morphine - have reached epidemic levels in recent years. These medications can be helpful for treating pain, but they also carry serious risks. Middle-aged adults have the highest overdose rates, and men are more likely than women to die from prescription opioid-related deaths. 

One of the biggest risk factors is non-medical use - taking medication not prescribed to you or using it to get “high.” But even when taken as directed, opioids can be dangerous. 

Steps you can take to prevent an overdose 

Whether you’re taking prescription opioids yourself or caring for someone who is, here’s how to stay safe: 

• Only take medications as prescribed. Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly. Never increase your dose on your own. 
• Never share prescriptions. A medication that works for you could be harmful or deadly to someone else. 
• Store medicine securely. Keep opioids and other prescription drugs locked up and out of reach of children, teens and others who might misuse them. 
• Keep track of your pills. Know how many are in each bottle and check regularly to see if any are missing. 
• Dispose of unused medication safely. Don’t keep leftover pills. Use a local drug take-back program or ask your pharmacy about disposal. You can also call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222 for safe disposal options. 

Know about naloxone (Narcan) 

Naloxone - commonly known by the brand name Narcan - is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. It’s safe, easy to use and available without a prescription in many areas, including Arizona. 

• Carry naloxone if you or someone you love is at risk. Many pharmacies and community groups provide it at low or no cost. 
• Learn how to use it. Narcan comes as a nasal spray and can be used by anyone, even without medical training. 
• Act quickly. If you think someone is overdosing, call 911 and give naloxone right away. 

Signs of an opioid overdose 

Call 911 immediately if someone: 

• Is unresponsive or hard to wake up 
• Has slow or stopped breathing 
• Has pale, bluish or cold skin or lips 
• Is choking, gurgling or making unusual snoring sounds 

Give naloxone if available and stay with the person until help arrives. 

Help is just a phone call away 

If you have questions or need support, contact the Banner Poison & Drug Information Center at 602-253-3334, or call your local poison center anytime at 1-800-222-1222. Help is available 24/7.