Combating the Opioid Epidemic in Georgia

The Georgia Department of Public Health is calling attention to the nationwide opioid epidemic that started in the 1990s when physicians began overprescribing the pain-relieving drugs.

From 2010 to 2017, the total number of opioid-related overdose deaths in Georgia increased by 245%. In October 2017, the President declared the opioid crisis a national public health emergency, and in Georgia, almost two-thirds of drug overdose deaths were attributed to opioids; 1,043 total.  There are several steps you can take to help prevent opioid misuse and addiction. Never take more than the prescribed dose and always follow prescribed directions. If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose to catch up. Do not combine opioids with alcohol. Do not combine opioids with other medications or drugs without your doctor’s approval. Stop taking opioid medications as soon as your doctor agrees they are no longer needed. Always follow the prescribed directions.  When taking liquid doses, use an accurate measuring device and measure out only the prescribed amount. Use the medication only in the form in which it was prescribed. Never use another person’s prescription or share your prescription with others. Do not drive a car or operate heavy machinery on opioids.