Dealing with the Overdose Issue in Los Angeles
Heroin and prescription opioid users are constantly at risk of an overdose. There is no label indicating the potency of a batch of heroin, and prescription drugs sold on the street are sometimes not what they appear to be. Overdoses are often fatal, especially in an illegal use setting. Now, with coverage through Drug Medi-Cal, Medicare, and private insurance, prevention and treatment for opioid overdoses are available at low and no cost.
Opioids are highly addictive, which motivates addicts to buy drugs on the street from several sources. Heroin comes from all over the world and can be “cut” with other cheap and potent opioids before it gets to the user. Prescription drugs may be sold as the brand Norco, when it is really Fentanyl, which is hundreds of times more potent. This, by the way, is what killed the rock star Prince. These factors are so common that overdose cases have risen at an astounding rate during the last decade while opioid abuse has increased.
The human body adapts to drug use and builds tolerance over time. When too much of a drug like heroin or Oxycodone is taken at once, though, the body is unable to process it quickly enough and it begins to shut down. Respiratory issues are common, and overdose victims often can’t get enough oxygen to remain conscious. If nobody else is present, that person could fall asleep and never wake up.
Many addicts re-enter treatment within a year after they discharge because they can’t stay clean. They need a way to survive until they are ready for recovery, which can be achieved with Methadone or Buprenorphine Maintenance. Naloxone, a medication that stops the overdose process, should also always be in their possession in case they relapse. These services and Naloxone are all available at Tarzana Treatment Centers.
Now, Drug Medi-Cal covers opioid treatment from inpatient detox through residential and outpatient treatment. Naloxone is also covered, giving facilities an effective tool to prevent overdoses. If you or a loved one qualifies for Drug Medi-Cal, you should contact us today to discuss maintenance and Naloxone at the very least. Call us at 888-777-8565 or complete our secure Contact Us form.
Medicare and some private insurance cover most of these services, making them available and affordable to almost anyone in need. If you are not sure about your coverage, please contact us today. Your life, or that of a loved one, may depend on it.