Opioids

An opioid is a drug that eases pain and may also cause feelings of extreme pleasure. Opioids act on the brain and nerves. They can include both prescription medications and illegal drugs like heroin. Opioids can be addictive with regular use or misuse.  Opioid addiction is not a moral defect - it is a brain disease that affects the lives of addicted individuals, their families, and their relationships.


Find help for opioid use

Narcan     |     RedMed Boxes     |     The Opioid Epidemic

Narcan

Naloxone (also known as Narcan) is a drug that can reverse the effects of an opioid and prevent a death by overdose. CCPHD provides free Naloxone kits and training on how to use it to individuals who visit either the Albion or Battle Creek clinics.

Naloxone kits are also available through the Southwest Michigan Chapter of FAN (Families Against Narcotics) at 269-580-8290. Naloxone also is covered by Medicaid and many other insurances and is available without a prescription at the following pharmacies listed on the MDHHS website. Always call 911 when aiding an overdose victim.
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RedMed Boxes
RedMed Boxes provide safe disposal locations across the county for disposing of unused or expired medications.
Drugs that are thrown in the trash can be retrieved by others and used outside their intended purpose, and flushing medications can potentially contaminate the water supply.
By safely disposing, you will help prevent poisoning, misuse, and overdose in your community.
Click here to find the RedMed location nearest to you! 

 Tracking and Addressing the Opioid Epidemic
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Calhoun County is in the midst of an opioid epidemic, and Calhoun County Public Health Department is working to track the problem so we can work to stop it. You can learn more in our most recent Drug and Opioid Epidemic materials linked below.
Opioid Epidemic Archive

2018

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