Overdose update: Recent increase in overdose deaths linked to fentanyl-laced pills and powders

September 26, 2019.Reading time 10 minutes.

Update October 3, 2019 – Public Health officials continue to be concerned about increases in fentanyl overdose deaths in King County, driven by fentanyl found in counterfeit pills and in powders. As we reported below, between mid-June and mid-September 2019, there have been 141 suspected and confirmed drug overdose deaths. Since September 26, 2019, there […]

‘Bupe Pathways’ program reduces illicit opioid use and improves quality of life

August 21, 2019.Reading time 8 minutes.

The innovative ‘Bupe Pathways’ program is showing promising results for community members facing multiple barriers to traditional drug treatment.

Most recent overdose data released: 2018 data show most overdose deaths involve multiple drugs

July 2, 2019.Reading time 9 minutes.

Data from the 2018 Overdose Death Report is now available. The report finds that in recent years, overdoses from prescription opioids and heroin have remained stable, while overdoses involving methamphetamine and illicit fentanyl have increased.

Update: Carfentanil found in syringe at scene of January overdoses

January 18, 2019.Reading time 4 minutes.

Update as of 3/19/19: On March 8, 2019 Public Health received additional testing results from the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab from a syringe found at the scene of multiple overdoses that took place in the north area of Seattle on January 17, 2019. The syringe was found to contain carfentanil, in addition to heroin. […]

Public Health warning those who use illicit drugs to take extra care after reported uptick in overdoses

January 17, 2019.Reading time 4 minutes.

People who use illicit drugs should take extra care and not use drugs alone.

It’s now easier than ever to safely get rid of unused medications

December 13, 2018.Reading time 5 minutes.

When you open your cabinet in your bathroom, what do you find? If you are like me, you might find expired sunscreen, an old bottle of bright orange nail polish, and more miniature hand sanitizer than you know what to do with. Along with my harmless clutter, I find medicines that I’m no longer using, […]