Substance Use Prevention
The Department works to prevent opioid misuse, reduce overdose deaths, and support recovery across the district. Efforts include expanding access to naloxone (Narcan), promoting safe overdose response, and connecting individuals to treatment and recovery services, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). The Department also provides education and outreach to reduce stigma and promote hope, healing, and recovery for individuals and families affected by substance use.
Drugs take over 250 lives every day
To address the increasing number of overdose deaths related to both prescription opioids and illicit drugs, we are sharing the CDC's Stop Overdose campaign to educate people who use drugs about the dangers of illicitly manufactured fentanyl, the risks and consequences of mixing drugs, the lifesaving power of naloxone, and the importance of reducing stigma around recovery and treatment options. Together, we can stop drug overdoses and save lives.
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Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It is a major contributor to fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the U.S.
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Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids, including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications. Often given as a nasal spray, naloxone is safe and easy to use.
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What is polysubstance use? The use of more than one drug, also known as polysubstance use, is common. This includes when two or more are taken together or within a short time period, either intentionally or unintentionally.
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Addiction is a disease, not a character flaw. There are many ways to treat substance use disorders. Learn more about what options are available and how to support loved ones on their recovery journey.
