Opioid Addiction Crisis
At the height of the opioid epidemic, 259 million prescriptions were written for opioids, which is more than enough to give every American adult their own bottle of pills.1 Every day, more than 90 Americans die after overdosing on opioids.2
CareFirst is working to educate and help members who struggle with opioid dependence.
Opioid Basics
What are Opioids?
Opioids can be prescribed by doctors to treat moderate to severe pain. Common types of opioids are: oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine and methadone. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pain reliever, commonly used for treating advanced cancer pain.2
Tackling the Addiction Crisis
Where to get help
CareFirst contracts with a network of psychiatrists and therapists who offer timely appointments to members.
You may also access a list of opioid treatment providers.
We also partner with regional outpatient addiction recovery centers to help connect members with essential treatment. When participating in this program, costs for eligible services may be waived depending on your benefits.
Community Support
Safe Use and Disposal
When you fill a prescription for opioids at a pharmacy, pharmacists will offer counseling about the risks of dependence and addiction and advise you on best practices for safe use and disposal. For more information on safe disposal practices, visit the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Get Support TodayCall our support team at 800-245-7013 for general support or if you are in crisis.
Resources
What Do You Know About Prescription Drug Abuse?
Prescription medicines can successfully and safely treat mental and physical illnesses. But some medicines can be addictive and many can be abused. Being aware of these potential harms can help you prevent them.
Help a Friend Struggling with Addiction
When a friend or loved one shows signs of abusing alcohol or other drugs, it is hard to know what to do or say.
More Information about Prescription Drug Addiction
People take prescription medicines for many reasons. They may use them to ease pain, anxiety, or treat health issues such as attention deficit disorder. However, some people develop an addiction.
1Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014). Opioid Painkiller Prescribing, Where You Live Makes a Difference. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
2Rudd RA, Seth P, David F, Scholl L. Increases in Drug and Opioid-Involved Overdose Deaths — United States, 2010–2015. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2016;65. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm655051e1.