Harm reduction
What is Harm reduction?
Harm reduction refers to policies, programs and practices that aim to minimise the negative health, social and legal impacts associated with drug use, drug policies and drug laws
Name a drug commonly prescribed for Opioid dependence?
Suboxone, sublocade
Methadone
What are the two main categories of drugs that are commonly abused?
Stimulants and depressants
Name two signs that a person has had too much to drink?
Can't think properly, making bad decisions
Harm time staying conscious or blacking out
Vomiting
Slurred speech
Slow heart rate
Agitation
Name an example of a harm reduction (related to using substances)
Not using alone
Using in moderation
Clean needles and supplies
Safe supply/drug testing
Safe consumption sites (Adults)
Not mixing substances
Drinking water/Safe transportation while drinking alcohol
What is the definition of drug dependence (addiction)
The compulsive use of a substance despite negative consequences. It implies that if the person stops taking the drug they suffer physical and/or psychological withdrawal symptoms and signs.
What is a stimulant?
Stimulants are a class of drugs that speed up messages travelling between the brain and body. They can make a person feel more awake, alert, confident or energetic.
Name 2 signs/symptom of an opioid overdose
Difficulty walking, talking or staying awake "Downing out"
Blue, purple or grey skin, lips or nails (Cyanosis)
Very small pupils (also known as pinpoint)
Cold and clammy skin.
Dizziness and confusion.
Slow, weak or no breathing
Decreased heart rate, blood pressure
Are using condoms considered harm reduction?
Yes
Name a symptom of withdrawal? (Any drug)
Body aches, pains
Chills, runny nose, watery eyes, flu-like symptoms
Temperature dysregulations
Nausea/Vomiting
Anxiety/Insomnia/irritability
Yawning
Increased Heart rate
What is a depressant?
Depressant substances reduce arousal and stimulation. They affect the central nervous system, slowing down the messages between the brain and body.
What is the name of the drug given to reverse Opioid overdose?
Naloxone
Where can you get a Naloxone kit?
Pharmacy - free
What is the most widely used substance among youth in Canada?
Alcohol (2023-2024 report)
Name a drug that is a stimulant "Upper"
Amphetamines
Cocaine
Nicotine
Name a sign/symptom of stimulant overdose (Methamphetamine, Cocaine)
Agitation
Chest pain/ Heart attack
Difficulty breathing
Increased body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure
Paranoia
Psychosis
Seizures
Severe stomach pain
Stroke
What is the good Samaritan act?
Individuals who witness an overdose can seek emergency assistance without fearing legal repercussions
What is the opposite of addiction?
Connection
Name a drug that is a depressant? "Downer"
Opioids - Fentanyl, Morphine, Heroin
Alcohol
Benzodiazepines - Valium, Xanax
What commonly abused drug causes the most deaths in Canada today?
Opioids- Fentanyl