

Amy Mancia
- Jul 31, 2017
Why are opioids so dangerous?
Even when taken as directed, prescription opioids can lead to
heightened tolerance causing you to need to take more of the
medication for the same pain relief. The body's physical
dependence results in symptoms of withdrawal when the
medication is stopped. Withdrawal symptoms can include
increased sensitivity to pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dry
mouth, sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, depression, low
energy and strength, itching, and sweating. Consuming too many o


Amy Mancia
- Jul 30, 2017
Opioid Failure: Talk About It
When should I be concerned that my opioid pain medications have failed me or my loved ones? Talking about three questions can help you decide 1 - Are serious opioid-related side effects occurring? Serious side effects re ones that are life threatening--usually requiring admission to the hospitalto manage, like not breathing well or becomng very confused. Serious side effects are ones that are difficult to manage, like severe constipation. Another side effect that can be diffi


Samantha Stringer
- Jul 28, 2017
Changing Trends to Improve Life Chances
SafeRx Santa Cruz County During July’s HIP Council meeting, Bill Morris, MD from Janus of Santa Cruz and Palo Alto Medical Foundation and Jen Hastings, MD, physician consultant at HIP presented on SafeRx Santa Cruz County, our local opioid safety coalition. SafeRx is a broad-sector coalition that relies on partners in social services, government, and healthcare working together to influence change and accelerate existing efforts to promote opioid safety. The coalition is divi