Prescription Drug Abuse Programs in Syracuse

Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in Syracuse, New York, and throughout the state. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, New York is among the top five states for prescription opioid overdose deaths, with Syracuse being one of the hardest hit cities. In response to this growing problem, there are several programs and resources available in Syracuse to address prescription drug abuse.

1. Local Rehab Programs: Several rehab programs in Syracuse specialize in treating prescription drug abuse. These include outpatient programs, inpatient programs, detox centers, and medication-assisted treatment programs. Some popular rehab facilities in Syracuse include Helio Health, Crouse Health, and Syracuse Behavioral Healthcare.

2. Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs in Syracuse: The most commonly abused prescription drugs in Syracuse are opioids, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, and benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Valium. These drugs can be obtained through prescriptions or through illegal means on the streets.

3. Co-Occurring Disorders: Many individuals who struggle with prescription drug abuse also have co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety. According to a study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 60% of individuals receiving treatment for substance abuse in New York also have a co-occurring mental health disorder.

4. Opioid Overdose Deaths in Syracuse: In 2019, there were 33 opioid overdose deaths in Syracuse, according to data from the Onondaga County Health Department. This number has been steadily increasing over the past few years, highlighting the need for effective programs and resources to combat prescription drug abuse.

5. Prescription Drug Monitoring Program: New York has a statewide Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) that collects information on controlled substance prescriptions. This program helps to prevent prescription drug abuse by identifying potential red flags in an individual's prescription history.

6. Naloxone Distribution Programs: Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. In an effort to combat the rising number of overdose deaths, Syracuse has implemented Naloxone distribution programs to make this life-saving medication more readily available to those who need it.

7. Peer Support and Recovery Programs: There are several peer support and recovery programs available in Syracuse for those struggling with prescription drug abuse. These programs, such as Narcotics Anonymous and SMART Recovery, provide a support system and help individuals maintain sobriety after completing a rehab program.

Overall, the city of Syracuse, New York, recognizes the severity of the prescription drug abuse problem and is taking steps to address it through various programs and resources. It is important for individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse to seek help and for the community to continue working towards reducing the impact of this epidemic.