SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER

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Real Poison Center Case


A 27-year-old male is found unresponsive in their home by a friend. He had a history of using Xanax (alprazolam). He was known to take five “bars”, or 10 milligrams, of Xanax. He was having shallow respiration so 911 was called. The patient was transported to the emergency department. Upon arrival, the doctor noted the patient had pinpointed pupils and a low respiratory rate, which was unexpected for a Xanax exposure. Bedside testing was negative for drugs of abuse. Healthcare providers were puzzled and called the poison center for assistance.  The specialist in poison information lets them  know that there are currently no drug tends to match these symptoms and that it was possible the drug was contaminated. The specialist  suggested that the patient be observed overnight. The patient was observed overnight and discharged the following day with instructions to see their primary care physician for a follow-up and counseling services.


Did you know?


September is National Suicide Prevention Month


September is a time to raise awareness on a topic that is very prevalent in today's society. National Suicide Prevention Month focuses on raising awareness about the problem and the resources available to anyone in need. Recently some changes were made to improve access. You can now text 988 to get immediate support for a mental, substance abuse, and/or suicide crisis. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988.



Be in the know with Fentanyl overdoes


Fentanyl is a synthetic drug usually used to treat severe pain.  It is about 50 times more potent than morphine. When prescribed, it usually comes in pills, patches, or lozenges. 


There has been an increase in overdoses in the United States that involve illicit fentanyl in recent years. Fentanyl has been making its way into the hands of the public in the form of illicit counterfeit medications or as a contaminant in other illegal drugs, such as heroin or cocaine. 


It's important to know how to recognize a synthetic opioid overdose to potentially save a life. Signs may include:


  • slow and shallowed breathing
  • loss of consciousness or falling asleep
  • choking or gurgling sounds
  • small and constricted pupils


If you or someone you know overdoses, please seek immediate medical help such as 911 or 1-800-222-1222. For more information about opioids treatments, please visit  findtreatment.gov. 

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