Opioid overdose can occur when a patient misunderstands the directions for use, accidently takes an extra dose, or deliberately misuses a prescription opioid or an illegal drug such as heroin. A person who takes opioid medications prescribed for someone else is also at risk.
Drug Combinations Can Be Dangerous
A person who combines opioids (prescribed or illegal) with alcohol, other medications or even over the counter products that depress breathing, heart rate, and other functions of the central nervous system are also at high-risk.