SANCA joins fight against overdose
International Overdose Awareness Day is celebrated on 31 August annually to help raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death.
POLOKWANE – Contrary to what many people think, people cannot only overdose on illegal drugs such as heroin or cocaine, some of the most common drugs involved in overdose-related deaths are over the counter (OTC) or prescription drugs. Limpopo and Polokwane are no exception to these statistics according to the South African National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence (Sanca) Director, Amanda Swart.
In August Sanca will be going silver to help raise awareness on overdose and how it happens as a build up to International Overdose Awareness Day.
Categories of OTC drugs most likely abused:
• Painkillers and anti-inflammatories
• Heartburn and indigestion medication
• Cough and cold medication
• Weight loss laxatives, diuretics and slimming tablets
• Sleep aids
Dangers of OTC abuse:
• Long term use can lead to adverse unpleasant effects and have serious side effects
• Most people are unaware of the content of the medication and could accidentally use too much of a specific ingredient such as codeine which can lead to overdose
• OTC sleeping aids can contain antihistamines and if too much is taken it can lead to seizures and heart rhythm abnormalities
• OTC laxatives (sodium phosphate) can cause dehydration and abnormal levels of electrolytes in the blood leading to kidney failure
• Chronic use could lead to tolerance, physical dependency or even addiction
• Short term effects could be drowsiness, vision impairment, loss of coordination and concentration, vomiting and even hallucinations with some of the medications
Tips for using OTC medication safely:
• Keep a record of all the medicines you use including OTC, prescription medication, vitamins and even herbal supplements and make your doctor and pharmacist aware so they can identify the interactions these medicines have with each other
• Make a habit of reading the labels and warnings carefully to understand the content and possible side effects
• Use the measuring tool provided to administer the correct dosage with cough mixtures and other liquid medications
• Don’t crush or split medications unless directed by your doctor
• Be careful to mix and match different OTC medications
• Destroy unused or expired medication in a responsible manner
• Ensure all medications are locked away and controlled by you
