29/08/2024: ADF calls for action this International Overdose Awareness Day
In the lead up to International Overdose Awareness Day on Saturday (August 31), the Alcohol and Drug Foundation is calling for action to stop future overdoses and deaths as detections of deadly synthetic opioids rise in Australia.
According to the Penington Institute, there were 2,356 drug-induced deaths in 2022 – that’s 79 more than in 2021, and equates to six fatalities a day. A staggering 80 per cent of these deaths were unintentional.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s CEO, Dr Erin Lalor AM, said action to address overdose deaths is overdue and urgently needed as the threat of dangerous synthetic opioids loom.
“Concerningly, synthetic opioids are being detected increasingly across Australia, meaning anyone taking illicit or unregulated drugs could be at risk of harm,” Dr Lalor said.
“Synthetic opioids like nitazenes can be incredibly potent and can produce life-threatening effects very quickly – we’ve already witnessed the devastating impacts these drugs can have, including overdose and death.
“This Saturday we call on governments to act now to stop future harms, including better access to the life-saving opioid overdose reversal drug, naloxone, as well as increased public drug checking services and supervised injecting facilities.
“Greater investment in education is also needed – the reality is, new substances are continually entering the market, so ensuring people have timely, evidence-based information is crucial to prevent and reduce harm.
“We urge people taking any kind of illicit substance to be on high alert and take harm reduction precautions, including starting with a low dose, avoiding using alone, and having naloxone on hand.
“Be aware of the signs of an opioid overdose which include slow or shallow breathing, bluish or greyish lips and complexion, and reduced consciousness. If you’re unsure, call triple zero immediately – ambulances are not required to involve the police.”
For support or advice, visit adf.org.au or call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 .
If you are worried about your own, or a friend or relative’s alcohol or other drug use, you can visit the ADF’s Path2Help. This free online tool will connect you with local services in your area that can help, based on your personal circumstances.
-ENDS-
Media contact: Mikayla Wearne, 0430 948 380 or media@adf.org.au.