According to the Illinois Department of Public Health data, there was an opioid overdose increase of 2.3% in 2020.1 Comparing those numbers from 2019, the total percentage nearly reaches 40% of the population in Illinois. Due to these unfortunate deaths and how the state is continuing to see overdose rates rise, new strategies are being implemented that demand educating the public on the high risk of opioid addiction and encouraging individuals to acquire naloxone and naltrexone.
Illinois Opioid CME Requirement
The new Senate Bill 2535 gives more responsibility to pharmacists and other healthcare professionals prescribing opioids. They are required to inform patients of the risk of opioid use and warn them of the potency and how it poses a high risk for addiction. Under this legislation, patients have the option to receive an opioid antagonist, like naloxone and naltrexone.
The opioid prescribing law will take effect on January 1, 2023. The goal of this new law is to decrease the tragic opioid addiction in Illinois while also bringing awareness to other States in America to combat the crisis. Continuing medical education (CME) can prevent opioid addiction, long-term health complications, and overdoses.
The Senate Bill will allow circuit courts to execute drug-court treatment programs. Therefore, more harm-reduction services and resources are provided to achieve better CME results. People who complete the entire program will have convictions expunged. In addition, fentanyl testing strips will be used to reduce opioid overdoses, and patients are able to receive these resources as well as naloxone and naltrexone.
Is There a Difference Between Naloxone and Naltrexone?
What is naloxone? The drug is short-acting and is often used while someone is experiencing or showing signs of overdose. It’s used to reverse the negative effects of opioid overdose. However, medical treatment is often required during or after the use of naloxone.
What is naltrexone? The substance is used to treat opioid use disorder, although it may also be used to treat alcoholism. The chemicals in the drug block the euphoric and sedative effects of the opioids like heroin or morphine. Naltrexone is not an opioid, nor is it deemed addictive, but it may cause withdrawal symptoms if a person chooses to stop using suddenly. Opioid cravings are reduced as well as adverse side effects which prevent opioid overdose.
Signs of opioid overdose include:
- Slowed or shallow breathing
- Snoring or gurgling sounds
- Discolored lips or fingernails
- Cold or clammy skin
- Unresponsive
The opioid law is meant to encourage the effectiveness of naloxone and naltrexone to prevent addiction and overdoses. Side effects of naloxone include sweating, yawning or restlessness, stomach cramps, or nausea. Naltrexone may inflict similar effects as well as increased blood pressure. Before taking opioids or these analgesics, speak to a healthcare professional about any present health conditions.
Opioid Addiction Treatment at the Heartland Recovery Center
At Banyan’s Heartland Treatment Center, we offer prescription pill addiction treatment as well as for heroin, cocaine, and other addictions. Our medical detox is effective, and our medical staff is prepared to safely guide you through the treatment process to overcome adverse withdrawal symptoms. From unique programs like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and art therapy, we have what you need to sustain sobriety after treatment.
Speak to a specialist at Banyan Heartland by calling 888-280-4763 and get started with your treatment and relapse prevention plan today!
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