Opioid Overdose Prevention
98.5% Mocs haven’t used nonmedical opioids in the last 3 months (NCHA, Spring 2026). However, people who use drugs may not always have a clear picture of their risk of encountering opioids due to cross-contamination or intentional adulteration of other substances.
*Used with permission from SAFE Project
- Harm Reduction Tips
Unless the substances you’re ingesting came directly from a pharmacy, consider taking three steps to reduce your risk of opioid overdose:
- Never use alone. If someone can’t be there in person, consider a tripsitting hotline like SafeSpot.
- Start low, go slow. Taking a smaller starter dose can give you a sense of what to expect from a new drug or batch. Pacing out your doses—especially if you and others you’re using with stagger those doses—can help you notice if smaller amounts of fentanyl might be present, before an overdose occurs.
- Use fentanyl testing strips for pills, powders, or crystalline drugs. These small strips of paper, when exposed to small amounts of your drug dissolved in water, can determine if fentanyl is present. Testing strips are most effective when used on each pill or batch. Note: There is no good evidence of fentanyl or other illicit opioids being found in cannabis products.
Fentanyl and Xylazine testing strips are available for free through the Center for Wellbeing and many community organizations.
- Expectations & Interactions
Especially when experimenting with a new type of drug, it is wise to learn about the potential drug interactions with medications or other substances you might be taking.
Tripsit.me is one trusted resource for this type of information.
Naloxone
Naloxone (aka Narcan) is a safe, easy-to-use, life-saving medicine that temporarily reverses opioid overdoses. It works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain without activating them—meaning naloxone doesn’t get someone high, and it isn’t possible to overdose on it.
Naloxone is effective even against the strongest opioids, and is safe for use in pregnant people, children, and even pets where opioid overdose is suspected.
Where can I get naloxone?
ONEBoxes containing naloxone, instructional videos, and first aid kits have been installed across campus: in every residence hall and everywhere an AED is located (see map).
Individuals who wish to carry naloxone or keep it in their homes can also pick it up at the Center for Wellbeing during normal business hours.
How can I learn more?
Email the Center for Wellbeing if you’d like a training in your department, residence hall, or student group.
Time to Take a Break?
Detoxing from opioid use is painful, but usually not life-threatening. However, if you’ve been using multiple substances in combination—especially benzodiazepines or alcohol— it is recommended you seek medical advice before going cold turkey.