University Hospitals to Offer Lifesaving Overdose Resources for International Overdose Awareness Day

CLEVELAND, Ohio - August 31^st is International Overdose Awareness Day. To raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, and provide the community with direct access to free, lifesaving resources, University Hospitals will provide fentanyl test strips and naloxone, a medication that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose, at upcoming community events across Northeast Ohio.

UH caregivers will be distributing these resources at the North Union Farmers Market at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center at Lakeside Thursday, August 28^th from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 2074 Adelbert Road, Cleveland. Naloxone and fentanyl test strips will also be available to the public at the UH Portage Medical Center cafeteria on Wednesday, September 3^rd from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. In addition, caregivers will have fentanyl test strips and naloxone ready for pickup at county fairs in Canfield, and Geauga County this week.

Fentanyl is a powerful opioid that is sometimes added to medications purchased through unverified channels and to recreational drugs. Even a tiny amount can be fatal. The continued effort to make naloxone and fentanyl test strips widely available remains a key strategy in fighting this crisis. According to the CDC, U.S. overdose deaths decreased nearly 27% in 2024. Although encouraging, overdose is still a leading cause of death for people between the ages of 18-44 and remains a public health emergency.

It’s important to be aware of the dangers of substance abuse and fentanyl poisoning.

• Fentanyl in Black Market Rx Medications: Pills that look like legitimate Rx medications may be laced with fentanyl, leading to accidental overdose. Examples have included ADHD and pain management medications.
• Contaminated Street Drugs: Fentanyl is increasingly being mixed into substances like cocaine, and more. Even a single use can be lethal.

Protect Your Health

• Only Use Prescriptions from Licensed Pharmacies. Ensure your medications are safe by only using a trusted pharmacy.
• Avoid Illicit Drugs. There’s no way to know what’s in drugs bought on the street. Don’t take the risk.
• Use Fentanyl Test Strips when in doubt. These easy-to-use testing strips can tell you immediately if your item is tainted.
• Know the Signs of an Overdose. Recognize the symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, or blue skin/lips. Act fast—call 911 immediately.
• Carry Naloxone. Reverse an opioid overdose that you encounter with naloxone. Get your free kit from any Ohio Department of Health Project DAWN location.

As a new school year begins, it’s important to talk to friends, family, and classmates about this important issue. Together, we can save lives. If you have any questions or need help, talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

National Overdose Lifeline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Local Resources: Ohio Department of Health