Consumer Health Resources

This website — a data “dashboard” available to all — offers the latest data on addiction and overdose in Rhode Island; as well as resources on preventing overdose for a variety of audiences, including loved ones of opioid users, health care providers, and more.

Overdose prevention, signs of an overdose, and how to respond to an overdose.

Opioid use — even short term — can lead to addiction and, too often, overdose. Find out how short-term pain relief leads to life-threatening problems.

Opioids, sometimes called narcotics, are a type of drug. They include strong prescription pain relievers, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and tramadol. The illegal drug heroin is also an opioid. Some opioids are made from the opium plant, and others are synthetic (man-made).

NPR is an independent, nonprofit media organization that was founded on a mission to create a more informed public. Find the latest news coverage on Opioid Addictions at NPR here.