Steven Fox DDS’ Post

Really great to see buprenorphine getting coverage. Despite access opening up via the elimination of the X Waiver, dispensing has not gone up. More people need access to this life-saving and life-changing drug. And it's so important that this segment explains that so many rehab and treatment programs and halfway houses require "abstinence" that includes going off this medication - a policy that can have deadly consequences. AND we have to talk about methadone, another medication for opioid use disorder. As with all medications, buprenorphine doesn't work for everyone who has the condition it was designed to treat, and especially with fentanyl use, methadone is an important option. But it is the most highly regulated prescription drug in the country, only accessible by going to a special clinic (up to 6 days/week). But 77.5m Americans live in a county that has no such clinic. People can face a commute of hours - which is simply unworkable for many people, due to work, family, transportation, and financial constraints. Missing even one appointment can result in the clinic revoking your privileges, depending on the clinic. We need every solution on the table, every tool in the toolbox ready to be picked up and used.

Enhance your practice with courses on opioids, opioid overdose, opioid prescribing and pain, adolescent-focused, and general substance use. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has a wide variety of CME/CE courses on the topics you need to best care for your patients: https://bit.ly/45tWowA #COPE #AddictionMedicine #SubstanceUseDisorder #OpioidUseDisorder

Lethal overdoses can be caused by all types of prescription and illegal opioids, including oxycodone, codeine, morphine, fentanyl and heroin. In Canada, opioid use has reached a crisis level. Since 2016, there have been over 44,000 opioid-related deaths and 174,000 emergency room visits. An opioid overdose is always a medical emergency and even as a bystander, learning how to recognize the signs and act quickly can save lives. This awareness is also important if a loved one or a person in your care is taking an opioid for pain management. This International Overdose Awareness Day, take a moment to learn more about opioids, why they can be so dangerous and how to respond to a suspected overdose: https://buff.ly/3MtTHT7 #TogetherweCan

Underprescribing causes a lot of pain and suffering. Judicious prescription is key.

Drug overdose is a growing global issue that claims thousands of lives each year. Accidental or intentional, overdosing on drugs can cause severe health complications or death if not treated promptly. Recognizing the signs of an overdose, such as difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, or erratic behavior, is crucial in saving lives. Antidotes play a vital role in reversing the effects of certain overdoses. For example, Naloxone is commonly used to counteract opioid overdoses, while activated charcoal can absorb toxins in cases of various drug ingestions. However, it's essential to seek immediate medical attention as time is critical during an overdose. Raising awareness about this issue and ensuring access to life-saving antidotes can prevent tragic outcomes. Let’s prioritize education and emergency preparedness to combat drug overdoses effectively. #DrugOverdose #HealthcareAwareness #Antidotes #Naloxone #PublicHealth #EmergencyCare #SaveLives #PharmacistCare #HealthcareCommunity

Are you IN THE KNOW about Naloxone? Also known by the brand name Narcan, this medication can block or reverse an opioid overdose. Learn more: https://buff.ly/3BLaFqU #hocomd #howardcountymd #narcansaveslives #opioidoverdose #overdoseprevention #naloxone #narcan #opioidcrisis

Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) can prevent and reverse overdose. They also reduce opioid use and cravings. They are safe, effective, and save lives. The infographic below from The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)👇 shows how these medications work. View and share: https://go.nih.gov/1nClMYU

Today, on August 31, we observe International Overdose Awareness Day, the world's largest campaign to end overdose and remember those we have lost. This day aims to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and advocate for policy change to prevent future tragedies related to drug overdose. The campaign promotes education on safe drug use, access to treatment services, and discussions on policy reform. Globally, events, vigils, and educational programs are held to spread awareness about overdose risks, especially concerning the opioid epidemic and synthetic drugs. If you are interested in learning more about specific events or getting involved in this important cause, feel free to reach out. Let's work together to make a difference and prevent further loss. #OverdoseAwarenessDay #EndOverdose #PreventTragedies

Today, on August 31, we observe International Overdose Awareness Day, the world's largest campaign to end overdose and remember those we have lost. This day aims to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and advocate for policy change to prevent future tragedies related to drug overdose. The campaign promotes education on safe drug use, access to treatment services, and discussions on policy reform. Globally, events, vigils, and educational programs are held to spread awareness about overdose risks, especially concerning the opioid epidemic and synthetic drugs. If you are interested in learning more about specific events or getting involved in this important cause, feel free to reach out. Let's work together to make a difference and prevent further loss. #OverdoseAwarenessDay #EndOverdose #PreventTragedies

Today is #NationalFentanylAwarenessDay #Naloxone is a medication designed to rapidly reverse #opioid overdose. Carry it, learn how to recognize an opioid overdose, and how to respond. Learn more about naloxone and how it works in the body. #SaveALife https://lnkd.in/gZguhMBj