Opioids
Opioids are a class of drug that can be prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner but are also found in the street drug supply. Common opioids include heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, codeine, morphine, methadone and hydromorphone.
Opioids can produce euphoria. Some people use them for their ability to produce a “high” or feeling of relaxation. Others may use opioids to prevent them from feeling the effects of withdrawal or “dope sick” from drugs.
Opioid overdose
An opioid overdose happens when a person takes more opioids than their body can handle. Breathing may become irregular and slow, and a person may not respond to stimulation. If someone cannot breathe, or is not breathing enough, the oxygen levels in the blood decrease. This can lead to brain damage, cardiac arrest, and death.
The overdose crisis in B.C.
The overdose crisis in B.C. has been tragically ongoing since 2016. People are losing their loved ones every day from overdose – family, friends, neighbours, and co-workers.
After the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an alarming increase in overdose deaths in every region of the province. Measures taken to slow the spread of COVID-19 impacted access to harm reduction services and contributed to a street drug supply that has become increasingly dangerous and toxic. Though the pandemic emergency has ended, the overdose crisis continues.
Overdose prevention
If you or someone you know uses drugs, there are proven ways to stay safer and decrease the risk of overdose, like using drugs with a buddy, or carrying Naloxone.
Learn the signs of an opioid overdose – you could help to save a life. Visit our Respond to an Overdose page to find out more about overdose response and prevention.
If you suspect an overdose, call 9-1-1 right away.
Resources
Showing 5 Resources
Opioid Treatment Access Line
Provides confidential and same-day access to opioid agonist treatment medication for people throughout BC with opioid use disorder to prevent withdrawals, reduce cravings and the risk of overdoses.
People can call the access line to speak with a doctor or nurse over the phone who can prescribe the medication and offer connections to supports in the community.
Lifeguard App
Provides a free phone app that brings emergency responders to people who may be having an overdose on drugs while alone. Provided in partnership with regional health authorities and Lifeguard Digital Health.
The app is activated by the user before they take their dose. If the user doesn't hit a button after a set amount of time, a text-to-voice call will go to 9-1-1, alerting emergency medical dispatchers of a possible overdose.
Overdose Prevention Sites Listings (Toward the Heart)
Locations where people can safely use drugs under supervision of staff trained in emergency response. Services are free.
Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service
Provides a free, confidential phone service for people throughout BC needing help with any kind of substance use concern. Offers information and referral to education and prevention resources, support groups, and a full range of counselling and treatment services. Not a clinical service.
Lifeguard App
Provides a free phone app that brings emergency responders to people who may be having an overdose on drugs while alone. Provided in partnership with regional health authorities and Lifeguard Digital Health.
The app is activated by the user before they take their dose. If the user doesn't hit a button after a set amount of time, a text-to-voice call will go to 9-1-1, alerting emergency medical dispatchers of a possible overdose.