Opioids

As the both the nation and our community face the opioid epidemic, Tonka CARES is committed to changing the conversation and the outcome of opioid misuse and addiction in our community. Improving education and awareness, supporting appropriate medicinal use of prescribed medications, diminishing access, supporting early intervention, and medication assisted treatment, Tonka CARES is focused on improving prevention and to breaking down stigma and removing barriers for treatment of this deadly and preventable disease.

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What are opioids

Opiate: a drug or medication that is derived from the naturally occurring opium poppy plant (Papaver somniferum). Examples include codeine & morphine.

Opioid: An opioid is a more broad based term and includes both the opiate medications & drugs listed above as well as those that are partially or completely chemically manufactured to result in medications/drugs that cause effects in the body similar to those of naturally occurring opiates. Examples include oxycodone & hydrocodone.

Medication Assisted Treatment & Overdose Reversal Agents

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT is the use of FDA- approved medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapy, to treat substance use/addiction disorders. MAT approved treatment for opioid use disorder include Methadone, Buprenorphine, and Naltrexone.

Naloxone: is an FDA-approved medication to reverse opioid overdose. It can be injected (Intramuscular or intravenous) or more commonly used as an intranasal spray. Many first responders and law enforcement officers carrier this life saving medication- however NOT all do. Check with your local service providers for policies.