Medina County marks Overdose Awareness Month, promotes naloxone access
Medina County is observing Overdose Awareness Month to honor the more than 300 lives lost to accidental overdoses in the past decade while promoting safe medication practices, reducing stigma and encouraging residents to access free naloxone and training.
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For the past 10 years, accidental overdoses have taken the lives of more than 300 people in Medina County, deeply affecting families and the community. In August, the Medina County Health Department (MCHD) and other local groups are observing Overdose Awareness Month — a time to remember those lost, honor their lives and work to prevent future overdoses.
It is also important to talk about substance use disorder without judgment. By recognizing it as a medical issue rather than a personal failure, stigma can be reduced. MCHD is committed to helping residents and preventing overdoses by promoting safe medication practices.
Residents can help by storing medications safely in a locked box or secure location, disposing of them properly through county drop-off sites or Deterra bags, and talking with children about the dangers of taking unprescribed medication.
A key tool in preventing overdose deaths is naloxone, a life-saving medicine that helps someone breathe again during an opioid overdose. It is often called Narcan or Kloxxado.
Medina County residents can obtain free naloxone from dispensing boxes, through mail order, or by contacting MCHD. Free training on naloxone use is also available for individuals and businesses.
For dispensing box locations, medication safety resources, guides for talking to kids about drugs and naloxone options, visit medinahealth.org/naloxone or call 330-723-9688, option 2.
The Medina County Health Department has protected residents’ health since 1918. Services are partially supported by the property tax health levy. The department is an equal opportunity provider.
