The Nebraskois have asked to do their part to combat the epidemic of opioids

About 116 Americans die every day from drug overdoses involving opioids. Some of these deaths are here in Nebraska. Dr. Ana Fuentevilla of the United Health Group said opioids are useful for managing pain after surgery. However, this use can quickly lead to addiction. She says that every patient should have a discussion with their doctor and ask important questions.

Dr. Fuentevilla said, "A patient can ask his doctor for the lowest possible dose for safety and as few days as possible. We know that after three days, the risk of opioid addiction can be increased. "

About 70% of misused opioid prescriptions were obtained, stolen or purchased from a friend or family member. In the United States, a person dies every 13 minutes of an opioid overdose and an estimated two million Americans have an addiction-related disorder with painkillers.

This should serve as a reminder that you will get unused and unwanted prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from your home. Saturday is National Prescription Drug Day, which is attended by many agencies in Nebraska.