THE UNITED STATES OPIOID EPIDEMIC
How we are working to address the issue
from a data and research perspective
Issue Background
Opioids are one
important tool for
treating acute pain
Opioids work for
some people with
chronic pain, but not
all
Overdose epidemic
in the U.S. currently
driven by illicit drugs
(fentanyl)
Prescription pills are
a pathway to heroin
and fentanyl
Cocaine and
psychostimulants
use is increasing
Potential Solutions
Evidence-based
prescribing
guidelines
Non-opioid pain care
Disposal of unused
opioids
Screening for
substance use
disorders
Treating opioid use
disorder (addiction)
Reducing stigma
Naloxone training
and distribution