CHCC urges safe prescription practices amid rising fentanyl dangers

The Commonwealth Healthcare Corp., through its Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, would like to remind the public about the dangers of misusing prescription medications, particularly opioids.

Using someone else’s prescription or taking drugs without medical screening is not only hazardous to your health, but it is also illegal. Your life, and the lives of your loved ones, could depend on the responsible handling of prescription medications.

Prescription opioids, when used correctly under the guidance of a healthcare provider, can be effective in managing pain. However, the misuse of these powerful drugs can lead to addiction, overdose, and even death. Among the most dangerous of these opioids is fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is up to 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. Even a small amount of fentanyl can cause a fatal overdose.

Additionally, fentanyl is increasingly being illegally distributed in forms that are difficult to detect. This makes it critically important to practice safe medication habits and to be aware of the risks associated with opioid misuse.

To support the community in preventing opioid misuse, the CHCC PDMP advocates for the STAY SAFE Method, a set of guidelines designed to promote safe practices:

Stick to the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Tell your doctor if you are concerned about addiction.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

You can ask your doctor for another option.

Store medicine securely, out of reach of children, teens, and visitors.

Avoid mixing medications or combining them with alcohol.

Follow proper disposal instructions for unused pills or consult with your pharmacy.

Eliminate opportunities for others to find and misuse unused medications.

Taking medications as directed is essential for recovery and well-being. However, using drugs for purposes other than those medically intended-such as to get high, relax, study, or enhance performance-is both illegal and dangerous. CHCC-PDMP strongly advise against borrowing or sharing any prescribed medications. It is critical to speak with your doctor about any concerns regarding opioid use, to never mix these drugs with alcohol, and to strictly adhere to the prescribed dosage.

The CHCC-PDMP also highlights the recent enactment of CNMI P.L. 23-23, a law that strengthens efforts to combat substance misuse and prevent opioid overdoses across the Commonwealth. This law complements the PDMP’s broader mission of reducing substance misuse and overdose deaths through enhanced monitoring, education, and intervention. It ensures greater availability of naloxone, a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, and allows emergency responders to use naloxone and other treatments of overdose to prevent overdoses.

For any questions or more information about the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, call (670)-322-0061. (PR)