Opioids & Naloxone
What is an Opioid?
An opioid is a type of drug that acts on the nervous system to relieve pain. They are derived from the opium poppy plant or synthetically manufactured to mimic its effects. Opioids can be highly addictive and also carry a high risk of overdose and other serious health consequences. Review the types of opioids below to learn more about how they may be present in our community through both appropriate and inappropriate forms.
Prescription Opioids - Prescription opioids can be prescribed by doctors to treat moderate to severe pain, but they can also have serious risks and side effects. Common types are oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), morphine, and methadone.
Fentanyl - Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pain reliever. It is many times more powerful than other opioids and is approved for treating severe pain, typically advanced cancer pain. Illegally made and distributed fentanyl has been on the rise in several states.
Heroin - Heroin is an illegal opioid. 10-11 people died every day from a heroin overdose in the United States in 2023.
Signs of an Overdose
Recognizing an opioid overdose can be difficult. If you are unsure, it is best to treat the situation like an overdose— you could save a life. Call 911 or seek medical care for the individual. Do not leave the person alone. Signs of an overdose may include:
- Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils.”
- Falling asleep or loss of consciousness
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Limp body
- Pale, blue, or cold skin
Naloxone
Naloxone Prepackaged Nasal Spray (generic naloxone, Narcan®, Kloxxado®)
Naloxone saves lives because it can quickly restore normal breathing to a person whose breathing has slowed or stopped as a result of overdosing by opioids. Narcan is not effective in preventing death by overdose for alcohol, cocaine, benzodiazepines, or methamphetamine.
Kendall County Health Department has Naloxone available at no cost with no questions asked. A purple vending box holding Naloxone is located in the vestibule of our building for anyone to come and pick up as many doses as needed.
The Kendall County Health Department is also available to provide training to the community on opioid overdose prevention and how to use naloxone in those life-saving circumstances. Please contact us at (630) 553-9100 to schedule today and become an advocate against opioid overdose.
The Illinois Drug Overdose Prevention Program Law (PA 096-0361, 2010), also called the Illinois’ Good Samaritan Law, empowers non-medical professionals, including family, friends, and other community members, to administer naloxone to prevent a fatal opioid overdose without risking any civil or criminal liability.
Naloxone Kits are available. Please call 630-553-9100 for more information.
Treatment
Do You Have a Problem with Heroin, Opioids, or Prescription Medications?
We Can Help! Please call us at 630-553-9100 and let us assist you with accessing treatment.
Kendall County Health Department offers outpatient substance abuse services. Our team is ready to support you in your recovery journey today.