What to Look Out For
What to Look Out For
Signs of Drug Abuse
Signs of drug abuse can vary depending on the substance being abused and individual factors, but some common signs include:
- Changes in behavior: This could include sudden mood swings, agitation, irritability, or unexplained changes in personality.
- Physical signs: Bloodshot eyes, dilated pupils, sudden weight loss or gain, tremors, slurred speech, and impaired coordination can all indicate drug abuse.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Drug abuse can lead to neglecting work, school, or social responsibilities. This might involve missing appointments, neglecting personal hygiene, or dropping out of activities once enjoyed.
- Changes in social circle: A person abusing drugs may start spending time with new friends who also use drugs, while withdrawing from old social circles.
- Financial problems: Drug abuse can be expensive, leading individuals to borrow money frequently, sell personal belongings, or engage in other financially risky behaviors.
- Legal issues: Involvement in legal troubles such as arrests for drug-related offenses or driving under the influence can be a sign of drug abuse.
- Withdrawal symptoms: When the effects of the drug wear off, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, nausea, sweating, or insomnia.
It’s important to note that these signs can also be indicative of other issues, so it’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and seek professional help if you suspect someone is struggling with drug abuse.
What is it?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times stronger than morphine. Pharmaceutical fentanyl was developed for pain management treatment of cancer patients. Because of its powerful opioid properties, Fentanyl is also diverted for abuse. Fentanyl is added to heroin to increase its potency or be disguised as highly potent heroin. Many users believe that they are purchasing heroin and don’t know that they are buying Fentanyl – which often results in overdose deaths. Fentanyl is found in marijuana, cocaine, pressed in pills, and sold as something like Xanax, OxyContin, or Adderall. Clandestinely produced Fentanyl is primarily manufactured in Mexico.
How is it used?
Smoked, snorted or injected.
How does it affect the body?
Intense, short-term high, temporary feelings of euphoria slowed and low respiration, reduced blood pressure, nausea, fainting, seizures, and death.
Source: Fentanyl (2022). Retrieved 25 July 2022, from dea.gov/factsheets/fentanyl
The 54.2% decrease in overdose numbers compared to this time last year reflects the growing awareness and outreach efforts addressing the overdose epidemic in Carroll County. Key factors contributing to this decline include expanded resources such as peer support working alongside law enforcement, naloxone distribution, and increased education on substance use disorders. Initiatives within the State’s Attorney’s Office, including the Early Intervention Program, Drug Treatment Court, and presentations on the dangers of substance use, along with collaboration with many county partners, have all played a role in this progress. Our hope is that this trend continues until we achieve zero fatal overdoses in Carroll County.