*Registration for this training will close on Friday, August 4, 2023 at 9:00am*
The Ongoing Opioid Epidemic (Webinar Series Overview)
Opioid use and its consequences continue to be a
serious problem across the United States. The opioid landscape has experienced
several recent shifts due to changes in demand and supply, the social
determinants of health, and other risk and protective factors. The introduction
of fentanyl into the ongoing epidemic was one such change. Due to its extreme
potency, fentanyl is responsible for an ever-increasing number of fatal
overdoses each year. Another change has been the spread of xylazine (“tranq”)
use. Xylazine is a non-opioid sedative that is frequently used in conjunction
with opioids to amplify and extend their effects. Use of each of these
substances can occur intentionally or unintentionally, and both present challenges
to prevention professionals.
Part one of this two-part webinar series will provide an overview of the current landscape of opioid use, related trends, and their causes. While part two of the series will review evidence-based programs and practices for addressing the opioid epidemic, lessons learned, and opportunities for improvement.
Part 1: The Current Landscape
of Opioid Use and Consequences (Session Overview)
This webinar will provide a broad overview of current
opioid use and related trends in SAMHSA Region 3 and nationwide. It will review
changes in use and consequences, and ongoing shifts in substance preferences—
particularly the expanded use of fentanyl. Data on xylazine use are limited,
but available information will also be shared. The webinar will also discuss
the increasing frequency of polysubstance use involving opioids. It will review
the different types of substances used—intentionally or unintentionally— with
opioids, including xylazine, stimulants, and cannabis, and the extent to which
this use occurs. Lastly, the webinar will review the latest research on the
social determinants of health and other risk and protective factors impacting
the opioid epidemic.