The impact of the opioid crisis has been felt across our state and in every Duval County neighborhood. Knowing the risks of taking prescription opioids like oxycodone, hydrocodone and codeine can help keep you and your loved ones safe. Watch the video to learn 4 important tips.
Keep scrolling to learn why 
Combining opioids with other depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines (Xanax®) can multiply their effects and set off a dangerous chain reaction in your body. Both pain pills and alcohol slow your breathing and heart rates, and mixing them together combines these effects. So mixing even small amounts can cause a slowdown that puts you at risk of organ failure, or overdose.
Even though they’re prescribed, opioids are powerful and addictive medications intended for strong, short-term pain, such as post-surgical pain. They mask pain temporarily, but do NOT heal injuries. So always take them as directed by your prescribing physician and stop once your pain level is manageable. Within 5 days the body starts to experience signs of addiction and dependence, so never self-prescribe to deal with ongoing pain. If you do experience ongoing or recurring pain, talk with your doctor to consider alternatives and next steps.
Sharing your pills is dangerous. Your prescription and dosage are determined by several personal factors and are based on your unique medical needs. Everyone reacts differently, so what is safe for you may put others at a high risk for overdose. If someone thinks they need prescription opioids, they should consult a doctor first.
Limit access to others and discourage misuse by storing your pills in a safe, secure location. Once you no longer need your prescription, use a Deterra® bag to dispose of any leftover pills. Deterra® bags help prevent non-medical use by immediately deactivating pills and are easy to use at home. Contact us to get one for free.
