An opioid is a class of drugs that include both prescription medications and illegal substances that are used to relieve pain. Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, known as opioid receptors, which are part of the body's natural pain control system. This binding reduces the perception of pain and can also produce feelings of euphoria. Both prescription and illegal opioids can be highly addictive.
Opioids can be naturally derived from the opium poppy (such as morphine and codeine), synthetically created (such as fentanyl and methadone), or semi-synthetically altered (such as oxycodone and hydrocodone).
- Prescription pain relievers: morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, codeine
- Illegal drugs: heroin
Opioids are highly effective for managing severe pain but have a high potential for misuse, dependence, and addiction. Overuse or misuse of opioids can lead to overdose.
Public Exposure
Prevention
Mail Return
- Keeping medications secure and disposing of expired or unneeded medication can help prevent misuse, accidental poisonings, and overdoses. Most medications are not safe to dispose in the trash as they can leak into our soil and groundwater.
- Chelan-Douglas Health District is working with Washington Department of Health to provide safe medication disposal options in the region. Medication Return Kiosks and pre-paid Medication Return Mailers are available at many pharmacies and other locations. Medication return services are free and confidential.
- You can find these kiosks and order supplies at medtakebackwashington.org or 844-4-TakeBack (844-482-5322), TTY 711.
- Chelan-Douglas Health District has Medication Return Mailers available at our office (200 Valley Mall Parkway, East Wenatchee PHONE/HOURS)
- Help keep your family and environment safe. Dispose of medication properly. You can help prevent drug abuse in our community.
Youth – Communication
You can be an important source of information for your children and the youths in your life. For advice on discussing difficult topics such as Opioids, Overdoses, and Personal Safety, please visit our partners at Friends For Life. They have advice and information on how to keep your loved ones safe.
Start the conversation | Friends for Life
Treatment
Opioid Treatment Programs (OTP’s) are available for those who are struggling with Opioid Addiction. It can involve medication, counseling, detox services, and in- and out-patient counseling options.
- Recovery Community: The Alano Club Of Wenatchee is a recovery community that can be a safe place to learn about the first steps towards addiction recovery. Recovery Coaches are available in a safe and supportive environment.
Overdose
- Naloxone
- Opioids can quickly case an overdose in the substance user. The medication “Naloxone” can reverse an opioid so further medical attention can be sought. For more information, please visit our partners at the Washington Department of Health: Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution | Washington State Department of Health
Naloxone is available for free in a vending machine in the Chelan-Douglas Health District Lobby
200 Valley Mall Parkway, East Wenatchee - (509) 886-6400
Public Exposure
If you are concerned about coming in contact with fentanyl in public, please review this guidance created by our partners at the Washington Department of Health:
