DPH recognizes International Overdose Awareness Day, calls for action to reduce stigma

COLUMBIA – Aug. 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is taking time to remember those lost to overdose and to highlight the need to address stigma centered around substance use disorder with an aim to end overdoses.  

“Sadly, many across our state have felt the pain of the loss of a loved one from an overdose,” said Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH interim director. “By working together, we can reduce the stigma around substance use disorders and raise awareness and access to the education, testing and treatment needed to save the lives and prevent future overdoses.”  

In South Carolina, as across the nation, fentanyl has become the primary driver for overdoses and the leading cause of overdose deaths. Without the user’s knowledge, fentanyl is often mixed with cocaine and other illicit drugs, increasing the risk of a fatal overdose.  

Laboratory analyses revealed 70% of pills seized from the illicit drug market nationally contain a potentially lethal dose of illicitly manufactured fentanyl, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This synthetic opioid is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine.  

In South Carolina there were 2,296 overdose deaths in 2022, the most recent year for which data is available. Of those deaths, 73% were fentanyl-involved and 25% were cocaine-involved with fentanyl. From 2021 to 2022, there was an 11% increase in fentanyl-related overdose deaths in the state.  

DPH and partners work to increase access to Narcan and fentanyl test strips 

DPH is diligently working to enhance access to naloxone and fentanyl test strips statewide. Complimentary Overdose Prevention Safety Kits are available to all community members at DPH health clinic locations. These kits contain test strips, naloxone (Narcan), treatment resources and instructions for their use.  

“The distribution of Narcan is an important strategy in our aim at providing a vital second chance for those facing overdose,” said DaAsia Hamilton, DPH Substance Use Prevention director. “By ensuring that Narcan and fentanyl testing strips are readily available where it’s needed the most, together we can save lives and support healthier communities.”   

Naloxone, when administered in time, can reverse the effects of overdose from opioids (oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl, and others) and heroin. It is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and does not cause any harm if administered to someone not experiencing an opioid overdose. Naloxone is a nasal spray product and does not require a prescription.  

DPH staff undergo training to distribute naloxone at community events, and the department is also focusing on providing naloxone to schools for emergency situations and to hospital emergency departments for patients at risk of overdose upon discharge.  

Dashboard helps communities take actions to prevent overdoses 

Additionally, to keep track of new drug trends and changes in the local drug supply, DPH’s biosurveillance team works with hospitals across the state to gather detailed information about different substances. This information is available to the public through a comprehensive Overdose Biosurveillance Tracking Dashboard.  

The dashboard helps community members, health care professionals and policymakers stay informed about changes in drug use and their effects on local health and safety. By offering real-time, transparent data, the dashboard helps everyone make better decisions and take proactive steps to prevent overdoses.  

DPH recommends the following tips to South Carolinians to prevent overdose deaths: 

• Be aware: Understanding the risks associated with fentanyl and other illicit drugs. Always assume that drugs purchased illicitly could be contaminated with fentanyl. 

• Know the signs: Learn about the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose.    

• Carry Naloxone (Narcan): Narcan is a medication designed to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. Knowing how to use Narcan could save a life.  

• Reach out: If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, seek help. Local resources and support groups are available to assist in recovery.  

• Get free opioid overdose kits at DPH Health Clinics: Pick up a free Overdose Prevention Safety Kit from a local health clinic so you are prepared to respond during an opioid overdose. 

If you or someone you know has experienced an overdose, it's crucial to seek immediate treatment to ensure recovery and prevent future occurrences. Overdoses are critical medical emergencies, but prompt treatment can help individuals recover and begin the journey to rebuilding their lives.  

For individuals living with substance use disorders, addressing the underlying issues and obtaining professional help can significantly impact their recovery. Effective treatment options, such as therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups, provide hope and practical methods to avoid future overdoses. Remember, asking for help is a courageous step toward healing, and numerous resources are available to support you throughout your recovery journey. 

For more information on local resources and support services, visit DPH’s Opioid Epidemic webpage, visit embracerecoverysc.com or call the Statewide Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).