Last year, more people died from opioids than from car accidents.1
Prescription opioids are powerful painkillers, but for some, the side effects can be fatal.
An estimated 42 million people in the U.S. have been prescribed opioids for pain.2 Yet, most aren’t aware of the unpredictable and potentially fatal side effects of these medications—specifically Opioid-Induced Respiratory Depression (OIRD). If not caught early, respiratory depression can lead to heart attack, brain damage, and death. It’s a life-threatening condition that can happen to anyone taking opioids, even when taken exactly as prescribed.
While progress has been made to address the opioid epidemic, gaps in safety and awareness remain. From educating patients about respiratory depression, to exploring new monitoring solutions for early intervention, learn about ways to help prevent the potentially fatal side effects of opioids.
References:
“Odds of Dying - Data Details.” National Safety Council; Injury Facts, 4 Mar. 2021, injuryfacts.nsc.org/all-injuries/preventable-death-overview/odds-of-dying/data-details.
Data on file. Integrated Dataverse® (IDV) PatientSource® Study Period: 09/01/2018-08/31/2019
PLCO-005228/PLM-13255A-0721