The Fourth Wave of the Opioid Epidemic
Contributed by Michael Carson
The ‘fourth wave of the opioid epidemic’ has taken shape as polysubstance use involves Fentanyl and stimulants, most commonly cocaine and methamphetamines. Fatal overdose and poisonings have surpassed 100,000 fueled by Fentanyl and accounting for 75% of those deaths.
Once propelled by prescription opioids, then heroin and now, it is synthetic opioids and stimulants. In short, it has taken on a new challenge- the polysubstance overdoses/poisonings, which includes more than one drug. It is more important than ever to take this message to all Alaskans ensuring their safety, health, and well-being.
Hence, this past month, I joined MSBSD Counselors, Nurses, and the Instruction Department to develop an opioid lesson for our valley students.
I suggested to ‘cut to the chase’ and go directly to ‘One Pill Can Kill!’ Unfortunately, there are many cases of fatal overdoses/poisonings due to one time of using an illicit, street drug/pill contaminated with Fentanyl. In addition, I suggested using Kellsie’s Lesson as a resource for teachers to understand the basic neuroscience of tolerance, dependence, addiction.
I want to thank all the state agencies, coalition and task forces that are partnering and collaborating in battling the opioid epidemic.
The ‘GOOD FIGHT’ continues!