Characteristics of non-fatal overdoses
People who inject drugs experience an alarming rate of opioid overdoses. The majority of overdoses are non-fatal, yet a history of a non-fatal overdose has been described as a risk factor for having a future fatal overdose. Information about the characteristics of non-fatal overdoses can be useful in uncovering trends and guiding preventative services.
Findings
Overdoses occurred most often in the evenings, with no peak on the weekends. Summer months had more overdoses than other times of the year, with a nearly doubled risk of overdosing during August. Ambulance response time was longer for those that overdosed in private homes, likely outside of the city center.
Together, these findings describe the circumstances surrounding opioid overdoses in one of Europe’s most effected cities. The findings may have implications for preventative services.
Preventative services
With overdoses happening most often outside of low-threshold facility’s opening hours, and during the summer holiday months, local facilities may consider adjusting services during the periods with the highest needs.
Additionally, with longer ambulance response times to private homes, bystander administered naloxone can be considered to help shorten the amount of time until the victim receives the life-saving antidote.
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