The landscape of youth nicotine and cannabis use has changed dramatically. Today’s vaping devices are no longer limited to the recognizable e-cigarettes many adults are familiar with. Instead, manufacturers are designing “stealth vapes” that are intentionally disguised as everyday items, making them much harder for parents, educators, and coaches to recognize. Some devices are made…
When people think about addiction, they often picture alcohol or drugs. While substances can lead to addiction, the underlying pattern is often much broader. Some people may cope with difficult emotions by turning to work, social media, gambling, relationships, or other behaviors that provide temporary relief. The common thread is not the substance or behavior…
Oxycodone is a powerful prescription opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. While it can be prescribed by a healthcare professional, oxycodone is also misused and may be found in counterfeit pills or illicit drug supplies. Knowing the names people may use for oxycodone can help you recognize conversations or situations that may involve…
Is it methamphetamine? Fentanyl? A combination of both? Does it also contain highly potent synthetic opioids such as cychlorphine or dangerous adulterants like xylazine or medetomidine? The reality is that there is often no way to know. Today’s illicit drug supply is increasingly unpredictable. Counterfeit pills and powders may contain fentanyl, methamphetamine, or other powerful…
The Maryland Department of Health’s Drug Overdose Surveillance and Epidemiology (DOSE) team has released its 2024 Annual Report, which examines suspected non-fatal overdose trends across the state using emergency medical services (EMS) and emergency department (ED) data. The report helps identify patterns that can guide prevention and response efforts. Key findings include: Remember, safely storing…
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has announced plans to temporarily classify synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and three similar substances as Schedule I controlled substances. 7-OH products are made with 7-hydroxymitragynine, a chemical related to kratom that can produce strong opioid-like effects. While this compound occurs naturally in very small amounts in kratom leaves, many products…
Howard County has launched SmartER, an innovative online tool that helps residents make informed healthcare decisions by providing real-time information on hospital emergency department capacity, nearby urgent care centers, and the services available at each location. When you or a family member isn’t feeling well, SmartER can help you find the right level of care…
Each July, new laws passed by the Maryland General Assembly go into effect, impacting everything from health and education to driving and drug safety. Several new Maryland laws may affect healthcare, mental health, and substance use prevention efforts: To keep you informed, we’ve created a quick-reference spreadsheet highlighting the laws most relevant to local families…
As marijuana becomes more widely available and socially accepted, many teens and families assume it is harmless. However, a growing body of research suggests that marijuana use during adolescence may be linked to negative outcomes in both school performance and mental health. A large review of 63 studies involving nearly 440,000 young people found that…
When someone is experiencing an overdose, every second matters. Yet many people hesitate to call 911 because they are worried about getting themselves or someone else into legal trouble. Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law was created to address this concern and encourage people to seek emergency help without delay. The Maryland Department of Health recently released…
A new synthetic opioid called cychlorphine is drawing attention from public health officials, medical examiners, and law enforcement agencies across the United States. While many families have heard of fentanyl, cychlorphine is part of a newer group of synthetic opioids that experts say may be even more potent and difficult to detect. Reports indicate that…
As families navigate screen time, one of the most effective strategies is not just limiting devices, but helping youth stay engaged in meaningful, real-world activities. In Howard County, there are more options than many families realize, including creative, service-based, and hands-on opportunities that can help kids build confidence, connection, and routine. The Howard County Recreation…
A growing trend on social media is promoting peptide injections as a shortcut to muscle growth, anti-aging, weight loss, and faster injury recovery. While these products may sound appealing, many of the peptides being advertised and sold online are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and health experts are raising concerns…
Each spring, clocks move forward for the start of daylight saving time. While many people look forward to longer evenings and more daylight, the time change can disrupt sleep patterns and daily routines. Experts say these changes can affect mood, stress levels, and even vulnerability to substance use. Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz…
Grandparents often do more than share stories and traditions—they can help children develop emotional resilience and wellbeing. Research from Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child emphasizes that dependable, nurturing relationships with adults help children handle stress and regulate emotions. Children with stable, caring adults in their lives develop stronger social skills, better emotional control, and…
In this new PSA video, McGruff the Crime Dog returns as the face of the “Go For Real” campaign, warning viewers about the dangers of phony prescription pills. What seems like a harmless pill could actually be counterfeit—laced with deadly substances such as fentanyl, meth, or xylazine. Why This Matters What You Can Do to Stay Safe…
When people think about drug risks, they often think about pills or injections. But smoking substances carries serious health risks because of how quickly chemicals enter the body. When a drug is smoked, the chemicals travel through the lungs and move into the bloodstream almost immediately. Within seconds they reach the brain, which is why…
Doctors are warning about a condition called Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome, or CHS, as more cases are reported in emergency departments. Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome affects some long term cannabis users and can cause repeated cycles of severe nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. In some cases, symptoms become so severe that people seek emergency medical care. Researchers…
As marijuana laws change across the country, more Americans are using cannabis and stronger products are becoming widely available. Alongside these changes, some therapists, researchers, and public health experts say they are seeing new concerns emerge around mental health and regulation. In recent years, cannabis products have become significantly more potent. Many products today contain…
Counterfeit pills continue to pose a serious and growing threat to communities across the country. These pills are often designed to look exactly like legitimate prescription medications and may even be packaged in authentic-looking prescription bottles. Recently, DEA Houston agents seized counterfeit pills containing deadly fentanyl while arresting an individual attempting to sell them locally.…
Insights from Dr. Sarah Wakeman (Harvard Medical School, Mass General Brigham)Featured on Mel Robbins Podcast Alcohol is deeply embedded in American culture, often portrayed as a way to relax, socialize, or even improve health. However, modern medical research paints a very different picture. In a recent conversation with Mel Robbins, Dr. Sarah Wakeman, an addiction…
As Americans reduce their alcohol consumption, a new product category is rapidly gaining popularity: THC-infused cannabis beverages. Often marketed as low-calorie, alcohol-free alternatives, these drinks are now appearing in bars, grocery stores, and major retail chains. Industry analysts expect sales to grow significantly over the next decade. While cannabis drinks are frequently framed as a…
As marijuana becomes legal in more states, cannabis-infused products are becoming increasingly common in homes across the country. Among the most concerning of these products are THC-infused edibles—such as gummies, chocolates, cookies, and candies—which often look nearly identical to ordinary treats. For young children, especially those under the age of five, this resemblance poses a…
A dangerous new class of synthetic opioids, nitazenes, is driving overdose deaths across the U.S., Europe, and Australia. These drugs can be up to 40 times more potent than fentanyl, making even tiny amounts potentially lethal. Nitazenes appeal to drug traffickers because of their extreme potency and low production cost. For users, that potency translates…
Methamphetamine use is no longer a problem confined to the West Coast or specific subcultures. Across the United States, meth is increasingly intertwined with the fentanyl crisis, creating a dangerous and often deadly drug landscape that looks very different from past decades. This pairing, sometimes referred to as synthetic speedballing, combines a powerful stimulant (methamphetamine)…
The Drug Enforcement Administration, in collaboration with nearly 4,000 law enforcement partners across the country, will host the 29 th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this Saturday, October 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At nearly 4,000 collection sites throughout the United States, DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day encourages Americans to safely and…
A new substance trend is raising red flags: “Feel Free,” a beverage containing kratom, a plant with opioid-like effects, is being sold in small blue bottles at gas stations, vape shops, and online. Marketed as an alcohol alternative or “wellness tonic,” this product can pose serious risks to health and safety. What’s Going On What…
The DEA’s newly released 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment reveals a deeply concerning trend: veterinary medications are increasingly being misused in the illicit drug supply. The animal tranquilizer xylazine—often called “tranq”—continues to be the most common additive found in fentanyl powder. Even more alarming, a newer veterinary sedative, medetomidine, is now appearing in street fentanyl…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is calling on manufacturers of nicotine pouches to adopt child-resistant packaging, following a concerning rise in accidental poisonings among young children. What the FDA Found What FDA Is Recommending Why This Matters Many nicotine pouch products have bright colors, fruity flavors, or packaging that could appeal to children, making…
A new and extremely dangerous class of synthetic opioids, nicknamed “Frankenstein Opioids,” has been seized in all 50 states, alarming health experts and law enforcement across the country. What Are Frankenstein Opioids? Frankenstein opioids, also known as nitazenes, were first developed in the 1950s as potential pain relievers but were never approved for medical use.…
The Maryland Department of Health has released the Drug Overdose Surveillance and Epidemiology (DOSE) Annual Report for 2023, analyzing suspected non-fatal overdose trends across the state. Using emergency medical services (EMS) and emergency department (ED) data, the report provides an important look at overdose patterns. While non-fatal suspected overdose rates statewide decreased by 15% in…
HC DrugFree is pleased to share a new educational flyer from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), developed in partnership with CADCA: “Fentanyl: What You Need to Know.” This simple, easy-to-read resource highlights the urgent dangers of fentanyl and provides families and communities with facts that can save lives. Why This Matters The flyer…
Quitting vaping is tough. Nicotine withdrawal can lead to heightened stress, irritability, and anxiety. This makes support from friends and family more important than ever to help someone stay positive and focused. Practical Ways to Help Supporting someone through their quit-vaping journey takes empathy, patience, and the right tools. Your encouragement, combined with trusted resources…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced major changes to the safety labeling of opioid pain medications to better inform patients and health care providers about the risks of these drugs. Key Labeling Updates: Why This Matters These changes are designed to help patients, families, and prescribers make better-informed decisions and to improve…
While fentanyl continues to dominate headlines, a far more deadly class of synthetic opioids called nitazenes is quietly infiltrating the drug supply across the Americas, according to experts monitoring overdose trends. What Are Nitazenes? Nitazenes were first developed in the 1950s but were never approved for medical use because of their extreme potency. Today, they…
This week marks the third anniversary of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and we want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible impact this life-saving resource has made, and continues to make, across the country. Since launching in 2022, 988 has answered more than 15 million calls, texts, and chats, connecting individuals in…
A recent ABC News investigation uncovered a disturbing trend: a surge in flashy, disguised illicit vapes flooding the U.S. market, specifically designed to attract teens and avoid adult/parent detection. These vapes are hidden in objects like: 🎯 The Target? Teens. Not only are these devices stylish and discreet, but they also contain dangerously high nicotine…
What seems like a harmless pill could actually be counterfeit—laced with deadly substances such as fentanyl, meth, or xylazine.
Each year, the start of July marks more than just the middle of summer—it also means new laws passed by the Maryland General Assembly officially go into effect. On July 1, 2025, dozens of new measures became law, covering a wide range of issues that impact Marylanders of all ages. From public health and transportation…
Many people think that mental health problems are an inevitable part of aging, but despite common later-life stressors– such as retirement, social isolation, physical health problems, grief, or changes in living situations– conditions like depression and anxiety are preventable and treatable! Many older adults (about 25%) experience these issues, which deserve the same attention and…
Though many people are aware of the dangers of smoking and alcohol, the risks associated with cannabis and marijuana are often underestimated, especially when it comes to teenagers’ perceptions. In a recent report based on research, experts advocated for increased policies and prevention against youth and adolescent cannabis in front of Oregon’s state senate Committee on…
In just four hours, communities across the country came together in support of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) National Drug Take Back Day on April 26, 2025. With participation from 4,472 law enforcement partners and 4,590 collection sites, this nationwide event resulted in the safe disposal of 620,321 lbs (310 tons) of unwanted or expired medications. HC DrugFree is proud to have…
National Fentanyl Awareness Day will be observed on April 29, 2025, with the intention of educating the public and calling for action, providing vital information and tools for keeping families, schools, and communities safe amidst the fentanyl crisis. One major focus of National Fentanyl Awareness Day is the increase of fake prescription pills containing fentanyl…
A new study from the University of California San Diego challenges the widespread belief that e-cigarettes aid in smoking cessation. Researchers analyzed data from over 6,000 U.S. smokers and found that those who vaped, whether daily or occasionally, were actually less likely to quit smoking compared to those who didn’t vape. Specifically, smoking cessation rates…
For the first time in years, drug-related deaths in the U.S. are declining at an unprecedented pace, signaling a potential turning point in the fentanyl crisis. According to new research, overdose fatalities have dropped by roughly 25% nationwide, with some states seeing declines of up to 52.9%. This sharp reduction suggests that a combination of…
Many cough and cold medicines contain dextromethorphan (DXM), a safe and effective cough suppressant when used as directed. However, DXM misuse is on the rise among teens seeking a cheap and easy high. Found in over 70 OTC medicines, DXM in large doses can cause hallucinations, paranoia, impaired coordination, and even life-threatening effects, especially when…
Thursday, March 13, 7 p.m., hybrid hearing The Board of Education will hold a hybrid public hearing on Policy 9250 Weapons on Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m. Community members must pre-register by 4:30 p.m. on March 12 to testify. Details on pre-registration and testimony are available online.
On March 3, new expectations on student personal technology device use in Howard County Public schools will go into effect. Parents/guardians are encouraged to discuss these changes with their children so students are prepared to follow the policy changes and avoid facing consequences.
The new Taking Care of Us factsheet is now available, providing key information on suicide prevention and mental health resources for Black and Brown communities. This essential factsheet offers culturally responsive tools to support awareness, healing, and resilience—download it today!
This post was submitted by an anonymous Howard County community member “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” -Mahatma Gandhi. Did you make a New Year’s resolution to better yourself, your community and maybe even the world? There is no better time to honor your promise to…
On Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, the Howard County Board of Education approved adjustments to Policy 8080 – Responsible Use of Technology, Digital Tools, and Social Media, and the Student Code of Conduct that is intended to reduce the use of personal devices by students during the student day. The policy changes will take effect on Monday, March 3, 2025. While…
As cannabis products become more potent, experts are sounding the alarm about their effects on teens and young adults. With THC levels in today’s products often exceeding 90%, the risks are higher than ever. Research shows that More THC, More Often = More Risks, including addiction, cognitive impairments, and serious mental health issues like anxiety,…
As we reach the midpoint of the school year, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the importance of maintaining a safe and supportive environment for all our students. One of the most critical issues we face as a school community is bullying, which can have lasting effects on children’s well-being, social…
Medetomidine, a potent veterinary sedative, has recently been detected as an adulterant in illicit street drugs, particularly in combination with opioids like fentanyl. This trend has been observed in various U.S. cities, including Chicago, Philadelphia, and New York City. The addition of medetomidine to street drugs poses serious risks, as its sedative effects are not…
In this video, learn how researchers in Ohio led a study looking at hundreds of children’s brains since birth to examine the impact of screen time.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), current tobacco product use among U.S. middle and high school students has dropped to the lowest recorded level in 25 years. This is according to newly released data from the 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS). Within the past year alone, at least half a million fewer students are…
According to the DEA, intercollegiate athletics is an important part of campus life in the United States. In 2022, over 600,000 student-athletes represented their schools in sports, ranging from football to softball to track and field. With the extensive practice and travel commitments required by intercollegiate play, these students must work hard to balance the…
From Maryland’s Office of Overdose Response: The Philadelphia Department of Public Health recently distributed the attached health alert regarding medetomidine, a veterinary sedative that has increasingly been found in Philadelphia’s supply of illicit drugs. Important takeaways from the health alert are summarized below. Medetomidine Highlights Medetomidine is a veterinary sedative (alpha-2 agonist) that is more…
National Prevention Week (May 12-18) is a public education platform sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) showcasing the work of communities and organizations across the country dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of substance use prevention and positive mental health. HC DrugFree is proud to join with SAMHSA in…
On May 9. 2024, the DEA issued a press release regarding the 2024 National Drug Threat Assessment. You can read the press release and download a PDF of the report below. WASHINGTON – Today, DEA Administrator Anne Milgram announced the release of the 2024 National Drug Threat Assessment (NDTA), DEA’s comprehensive strategic assessment of illicit drug…
What’s Your WHY? #MyWHYNDAFW HC DrugFree asked teen and adult residents of Howard County, MD their WHY: Why they care about drug & alcohol related education, prevention resources, and why leading by example matters. This is what they said… HC DrugFree is proud to partner with the The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and…
Dr. Rahul Gupta, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy at the White House was recently interviewed by Melanie Hogan of WVAS and discussed the immediate need to continue to dismantle trafficking of illicit drugs fentanyl. Dr. Gupta says 90 percent of fentanyl arrives in the United States through legal and commercial points…
WASHINGTON – In 2023, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration marked its 50th anniversary as the only federal agency dedicated to fighting deadly drugs and drug-related violence. This milestone celebrated a half century of dedication to fighting drug trafficking in the United States and around the world, which threatens the public safety, health, and national security of our…
Marijuana vape use surged by 10.1 percent for 12th grade students, between 2017 and 2023. Just under 20 percent of 12th grade students reported vaping marijuana in 2023. Use of the drug also increased by 5 and 3.5 percent for 10th grade and 8th grade students, respectively, over the same time period, according to the…
The widespread use of cannabis (marijuana) and its increased potency are associated with a rise in cannabis-related psychiatric conditions, according to a University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) review article that was recently published in The New England Journal of Medicine. It highlights the urgent need for doctors to screen for and treat patients who…
The Maryland Department of Health’s Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) team recently convened a multiagency workgroup to assess the presence of xylazine in Maryland. The Xylazine in Maryland Workgroup (now the Emerging Drug Trends Workgroup) has released a report of their findings, which includes an examination of post-mortem toxicology data and drug-checking data from Maryland’s Rapid Analysis of…
November 2023 – SAMHSA has released the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health results, accompanied by a newly offered companion infographic. The 2022 sample size was 71,369 and used multi-mode collection methods in gathering the self-reported data from respondents. Some findings include the following results: • Among the 137.4 million (or 48.7%) current alcohol users aged…
HC DrugFree is proud to partner with the DEA and the Howard County Police Department for our twice a year medication and sharps collection event. On October 28, 2023 we collected 1,223.5 lbs. of medication at the HC DrugFree site in the Wilde Lake Village Center. Below is an excerpt of the press release from…
The Howard County Police Department announced that 1,278 pounds of unwanted medication and sharps were collected during #DrugTakeBackDay. The collection took place at the Wilde Lake Village Center and various drop boxes throughout the county. In collaboration with HC DrugFree and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the police hosted the event as part of a…
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than 38,000 Americans are diagnosed with HIV every year. Moreover, one in ten of the new infections are among users who inject drugs. Did you know that Howard County is next to 3 counties of only 48 in the entire United States responsible for more…
In 1987 the United Nations General Assembly declared June 26th as International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. “The aim of this year’s campaign is to raise awareness about the importance of treating people who use drugs with respect and empathy; providing evidence-based, voluntary services for all; offering alternatives to punishment; prioritizing prevention; and leading with…
Beginning on July 1st Maryland residents 21 years or over will be able to purchase marijuana for recreational use from licensed dispensaries. The Centers for Disease Control issued a public warning about how using marijuana can increase the risk of mental illness, including schizophrenia, depression, and suicidal ideation. Concerningly, a graph from the National Institutes of Health shows marijuana…
Every June the CDC partners with The National Safety Council to provide weekly topical information to celebrate National Safety Month. Summer Solstice happens on June 21st, so appropriately, the theme for this week is “heat-related illnesses.” Thankfully, Howard County has not experienced any heat-related deaths in the last 5 years, according to the Maryland Department of Health 2022 Heat-related Illness…
June is PTSD Awareness Month, officially declared by President Barack Obama in 2014. PTSD is an acronym for “Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.” This mental health disorder, originally identified in Veterans as early as the Civil War, has been recognized since 1980 in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM), which mental health professionals use for guiding diagnoses. According to…
On May 31, 1994, President Bill Clinton signed Men’s Health Week into law to encourage men to visit the doctor as much as women to close the age of mortality gap. Initially, the bill had been introduced by Senator Bob Dole who survived prostate cancer because it was identified early. Now the U.S. Department of…
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) today released a new data report Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Behavioral Health: Results from the 2021 and 2022 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health (PDF | 2.1 MB), indicating that lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults are more likely than straight adults to use substances, experience mental…
Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy Urges Action to Ensure Social Media Environments are Healthy and Safe, as Previously-Advised National Youth Mental Health Crisis Continues Today, United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released a new Surgeon General’s Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health – PDF. While social media may offer some benefits, there are ample…
HC DrugFree is proud to partner with the DEA and the Howard County Police Department for our twice a year medication and sharps collection event. On April 22, 2023 we collected 1,234 lbs. of medication at the HC DrugFree site in the Wilde Lake Village Center. Below is an excerpt of the press release from…
National Fentanyl Awareness Day, observed on May 9th, is intended to raise awareness about the public health crisis caused by fentanyl in the illicit drug market. Currently, fentanyl overdose is the leading cause of death for people under the age of 50. Fentanyl is: • A potent prescription synthetic opioid drug approved by the FDA…
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A Cumberland man who admitted to possessing approximately 665,728 methamphetamine-laced counterfeit Adderall® pills, the largest known seizure of its kind in the country, has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. Dylan Rodas, 27, has been detained since his arrest on March 28, 2022,…
SAMHSA: National Prevention Week is May 7–13, 2023! The Purpose of National Prevention Week • Involving communities in raising awareness of substance misuse and mental health issues, implementing prevention strategies, and showcasing the effectiveness of evidence-based prevention programs. • Fostering partnerships and collaborations with federal agencies and national organizations dedicated to improving public health. •…
About Xylazine Xylazine, which some may refer to as “tranq” or “zombie drug,” is being mixed with street drugs anda person may not even be aware. Xylazine is not an opioid. It is a very strong sedative used in veterinary medicine. It is not approved for use in humans. (Opioids are a group of drugs that…
The Governor of the State of Maryland declared that May is Asthma Awareness Month. According to the 2021 Howard County Health Assessment Survey, 15% of adults in Howard County have asthma. If you or a loved one has asthma, be aware that scientific literature supports that people with asthma should not vape. Moreover, scientists have found potential links between common chemicals in…
Agency Continues to Take Critical Steps to Reduce Drug Overdose Deaths Being Driven Primarily by Illicit Opioids Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Narcan, 4 milligram (mg) naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray for over-the-counter (OTC), nonprescription, use – the first naloxone product approved for use without a prescription. Naloxone is a medication that rapidly…
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is warning the American public of a sharp increase in the trafficking of fentanyl mixed with xylazine. Xylazine, also known as “Tranq,” is a powerful sedative that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved for veterinary use. “Xylazine is making the deadliest drug threat our country…
“NOOOO! Not my Skittles!” One Howard County middle school student lamented. “I can’t believe the companies would allow this,” another replied. “But I like Nerds…” another concerned student chimed in. These are just a few examples of the reactions we received when Howard County students in HC DrugFree’s Life Skills Class were shown photos of…
THC-infused candy and sport drinks, some disguised as popular and recognizable brands like Gatorade and Nerds, are being marketed to children. Since many of these products are being distributed in familiar packaging, unsuspecting kids and adults, may unwittingly consume THC. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the chemical that causes most of marijuana’s psychological effects. Authorities are reporting…
On January 31, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball signed an Executive Order creating an Opioid Collaborative Community Council to assist in determining priorities for how the County should use funds received through a National Settlement Agreement with opioid manufacturers and any future settlements. The Council is charged with making recommendations to the Fiscal Year 2024…
Wednesday, January 4, 2023 2021 NSDUH report includes selected estimates by race, ethnicity, and age and is the most comprehensive key findings report to date. Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released the results of its annual National Survey on Drug Use and…
Last week, three ballot initiatives were defeated that would have commercialized recreational marijuana in Arkansas, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Alternatively, voters in Missouri and Maryland voted to commercialize recreational marijuana. 21 U.S. states and District of Columbia now allow for the recreational use of marijuana.Learn more
On October 29, people from across the country helped reduce the risk of prescription medication misuse by bringing unwanted and expired medications to National Take Back Day events. The DEA recently announced that more than 647,000 pounds of medications were collected at 4,902 collection sites. This total includes the 1,294 pounds of medication collected in…
Many older adults take medications that could interact with alcohol. Some interactions could be dangerous or even deadly. Learn more in a recent blog post from NIAAA Director, George F. Koob, Ph.D. The older adult population is increasing rapidly. Alcohol use among older adults is also increasing. As we focus on the quality of life…
CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart have agreed to an approximate $13.8 billion payout to settle thousands of lawsuits claiming that the pharmacy chains mishandled opioid pain medications. The lawsuits have accused these organizations of putting profit over safety and fueling the opioid crisis. CVS and Walgreens made statements declaring their commitment to be a part of…
The Legal Action Center has created a new guide Be Empow(ER)ed!: Know Your Rights to Addiction Care for Drug & Alcohol-Related ER Visits to inform people who use drugs about their right to receive certain evidence-based services for substance use-related conditions in hospital emergency departments.
Press Release from the DEA on October 13, 2022: WASHINGTON – Yesterday, DEA and the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor for the City of New York announced a significant seizure of fentanyl. Two individuals in New York have been charged following the seizure of approximately 300,000 rainbow fentanyl pills, 20 pounds of fentanyl in white and…
Inhalants are everyday household products that are abused to produce mind-altering effects. Canned air contains compressed gas in an aerosol-type can that is sprayed onto keyboards and into electronic devices to clear out debris and dust. Dust-Off, a popular brand name of canned air, is a gaseous refrigerant-based propellant cleaner used to remove dust and…
Party safety is always important, and extra vigilance is in order on Halloween. Some tips for having a safe, fun Halloween include: 🎃 Use the buddy system. Stick with your friends the whole night, and never walk anywhere alone. 🎃 Have your phone fully charged and accessible while you are out. Keep your phone at…
On September 30, 2022 President Joe Biden declared October 2022 National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month: “During National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month, we rededicate ourselves to transforming the lives of America’s youth through prevention. We commit to building and supporting communities where young Americans can live healthy and fulfilling lives, free from the dangers of…
36 Million Lethal Doses of Fentanyl Removed from Communities between May and September WASHINGTON – The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration today announced the results of an enforcement operation that spanned from May to September and resulted in significant fentanyl seizures across the United States. As part of the One Pill Can Kill initiative, the DEA and its law…
Those who live with a serious mental illness (SMI) may be at greater risk of dying by suicide. Major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia are all considered serious mental illnesses. SMI Advisor, in partnership with the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, has published a guide to inform best practices among clinicians and suicide prevention coordinators when…
WASHINGTON – The Drug Enforcement Administration is advising the public of an alarming emerging trend of colorful fentanyl available across the United States. In August 2022, DEA and our law enforcement partners seized brightly-colored fentanyl and fentanyl pills in 18 states. Dubbed “rainbow fentanyl” in the media, this trend appears to be a new method used…
Maryland has a new way to connect to a local behavioral health crisis call specialist. Calling 988 will connect callers directly to the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline which can provide assistance with substance use or mental health crises. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline replaces the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1- 800-273-8255). All contacts…
On April 30, people from across the country helped reduce the risk of prescription medication misuse by bringing unwanted and expired medications to National Take Back Day events. The DEA recently announced that over 720,000 pounds of medications were collected at 5,144 collection sites. This total includes the 1,157 pounds that were collected at the…
A Maryland family is accused of running an operation that would have distributed large amounts of drugs, including fentanyl, across our state. A police search resulted in the recovery of more than 5 kilograms of fentanyl, more than 500 grams of heroin, and more than 7 kilograms of cocaine and cocaine base. “The organization had…
According to ABC 7 News, para-fluorofentanyl and metonitazene are being seen more often by medical examiners looking into overdose deaths, according to a recently published government report. They often are taken with — or mixed with — illicit fentanyl, the drug mainly responsible for the more than 100,000 U.S. overdose deaths in the last year. Click here to read…
The DEA has created a fact sheet to educate the community about the use of emojis in illegal drug activity. The list includes emojis used on social media and in advertising on e-commerce platforms. You can download a copy of the cheat sheet here.
Many people turn to marijuana or cannabidiol to ease their achy joints and help them sleep, but a new study suggests that could wreak havoc with any other medications they’re taking. Why? Because the body uses the same set of enzymes to process them all, scientists report. The chemicals in marijuana — THC, cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN)…
STORY HIGHLIGHTS 32% of Americans say that drugs have been a problem in their family Reports of family drug problems have increased across all demographic groups 31% describe local drug problem as extremely or very serious WASHINGTON, D.C. — Nearly one in three Americans (32%) say that drug use has been a cause of trouble…
The Howard County Police Department recently announced that there have been 12 confirmed deaths from opioid overdose from January through September this year. If you or someone you know in Howard County needs help with an opioid or other drug issue, call 800-422-0009, 24-hours a day, or walk into Grassroots (8990 Old Annapolis Rd, Suite…
NIH study suggests a link between cannabis use and higher levels of suicidal ideation, plan, and attempt. An analysis of survey data from more than 280,000 young adults ages 18-35 showed that cannabis (marijuana) use was associated with increased risks of thoughts of suicide (suicidal ideation), suicide plan, and suicide attempt. These associations remained regardless…
HC DrugFree is proud to have been one of the collection sites for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) National Take Drug Back Day since 2012. Pictured above with HC DrugFree’s Executive Director, Joan Webb Scornaienchi (far right) are Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of MD Jonathan Lenzner (fourth from the left), DEA Assistant Special…
Brief SummarySince 2019, Maryland has seen an increase in the use of Xylazine as an adulterant to the illegal drug supply. Comparing the first three quarters for calendar years 2019 and 2020, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) Unintentional Intoxication Death data through February 28, 2021, shows an increase of 175% (76 to…
Fatalities Remain Linked to Coronavirus Pandemic Disruptions State Response Includes Increased Focus on Serving Minority Communities Annapolis, MD – The Opioid Operational Command Center (OOCC) and the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) have released their report on the opioid crisis in Maryland for the third quarter of 2020. The report includes preliminary data detailing further increases…
Ringing in the New Year with a glass or two of champagne sounds harmless enough until it’s time to drive home. If you’re planning on drinking this New Year’s, make sure you have a plan to get home safely. Even better, offer to be the designated driver for those in your party! Facts about Drunk…
The National Emerging Threats Initiative (NETI) strives to provide an early warning system for the United States via the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). It does so by observing multiple trend lines and using the data to predict what is coming next. Download the brief from December 2, 2020 below.
In 2019, 13.7 million people (ages 16 and older) drove after using illicit drugs. Of that total,12.8 million people were under the influence of marijuana (2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Detailed Tables). This is an increase from 2018 when 12.6 million people (aged 16 and older) admitted to driving after using drugs. In 2016, 44 percent of drivers in fatal…
The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) and the State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW) have created a jurisdiction specific profile using the 2016-2019 Health Services and Cost Review Commission (HSCRC) data. The profile illustrates hospitalizations involving cannabis use.
The Opioid Operational Command Center released their report on the opioid crisis in Maryland for the first quarter of 2020. The report provides details on Maryland’s most recent intoxication fatalities data and outlines key elements of our response. Click here to read the full report and click here to read a brief summary.
The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) and the State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW) have created a jurisdiction specific profile using the 2018 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). The profile builds on the reports published by the MDH in order to illustrate substance use and mental health among high school cannabis users. Click here to view…
Synthetic drugs are made to look like other drugs, and it’s almost impossible to know what you’re really getting with them because they’re made illegally and often mixed in with other drugs. Click here to read the facts about synthetic drugs such as fentanyl, synthetic marijuana, synthetic LSD, and more. Click here to watch a…
To help parents interact constructively with their children, these six one-page tips for parents cover planning one-on-one time, staying positive, creating a daily routine, avoiding bad behavior, managing stress, and talking about COVID-19. Click here to access documents.
Whether you’re at a party or just hanging out, it’s possible that someone—someone you know or someone you don’t—may slip something into your drink that can hurt you. Click here to find out what you should do if you think you’ve been drugged.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse warns that COVID-19 could have a large impact on certain groups, including those with substance use disorders. COVID-19 attacks the lungs, so people who smoke tobacco or marijuana or vape are at a higher risk of being impacted. Click here to view a printable PDF of this article.
For decades, Howard County has been known for its forward-thinking approach to creating the highest quality of life, serving as a national example of how people of diverse backgrounds can create a thriving community. Yet, the future presents new challenges. Click here for a printable PDF of the report released by the Horizon Foundation.
The Maryland Public Opinion Survey tracks changes in patterns of use, attitudes, and source of opioid misuse among people in Maryland who admit to using prescription and non-prescription opioids. The survey found that the older age group (50-64) almost completely misused non-prescription opioids for pain management, while the younger group (18-25) is misusing mainly to…
A study of 32,000 adult participants published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine found that people who used e-cigarettes were 30% more likely to develop a chronic lung disease. Experts stress that “no form of tobacco is safe” and that there are growing concerns about the effects of vaping on teenagers as the number…
As of August 26, the Howard County Police reported 13* fatal and 112 nonfatal overdoses so far in 2019. *In fatal cases, some deaths are pending autopsy results for opioids and/or other substances. Numbers may fluctuate. If you or someone you know in Howard County needs help with an opioid or other drug issue, call 800-422-0009, 24-hours a…
Prescription opioids are involved in 40% of all deaths from opioid overdose in the United States and are commonly the first opioids encountered by individuals with opioid use disorder. Is the pharmaceutical industry marketing of opioids to physicians associated with mortality from overdoses? Read more: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2720914.
In an effort to combat youth use of vape products, the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Jerome Adams, is urging new local vaping restrictions including taxing and indoor bans. “Monitoring the Future” survey data released earlier this week by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, reported 21% of high school seniors said they vaped a nicotine…
Dr. Wilson Compton, Deputy Director of the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health, discusses findings from the 43nd annual Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey, released December 14, 2017. The survey focuses on drug use and attitudes among America’s 8th, 10th, and 12th graders. Questionnaires given to more than 10,000…
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) released a video with their Deputy Director, Dr. Wilson Compton discussing overdose deaths involving opioids including fentanyl. Remember, fentanyl (alone or mixed with other drugs) and other opiods are killing people in Howard County. Thank you to NIDA staff and Dr. Compton for the work you do throughout…
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a 2018 Suicide Fact Sheet defining what is suicide, how big of a problem is it, what are the consequences and how can it be prevented.
Howard County Police and Fire and Rescue Services responded to 7 non-fatal overdoses this past weekend. The 2018 year-to-date overdose count is 21 fatal and 91 non-fatal, for a total of 112. *In fatal cases, some deaths are pending autopsy results for opioids and/or other substances. Numbers may fluctuate. If you or someone you know in…
As of this morning, Howard County Police report 2018 overdoses are now at 103. Year-to-Date (January 1 to June 4, 2018): Fatal Overdoses in Howard County: 20*Non-Fatal Overdoses in Howard County: 83 *In fatal cases, some deaths are pending autopsy results for opioids and/or other substances. Numbers may fluctuate. If you or someone you know…
According to a press release from the Howard County Police Department, Driving Under the Influence (DUI) patrols result in 10 arrests overnight. Police see improved results replacing traditional DUI checkpoints with increased patrols for impaired driving. The Howard County Police Department and the Maryland State Police conducted joint supplemental patrols as part of a grant-funded DUI…
Go to bat for recovery in Howard County. Cheer for the Recovery and Agency teams as they race around the bases for fun and entertainment. Discover resources for hope and education about the disease of addiction. Food will be available. Open to the public at no cost. Saturday May 5th, 2018 from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm…
The Howard County Police Department Reported 2018 Year-To-Date Overdoses as of April 4: Fatal: 14* Non-Fatal: 59 *In fatal cases, some deaths are pending autopsy results for opioids and/or other substances. Numbers may fluctuate. If you or someone you know in Howard County needs help with an opioid or other drug issue, call 800-422-0009, 24-hours…
The Howard County Police Department Reported 2018 Year-To-Date Overdoses as of March 27: Fatal: 11* Non-Fatal: 54 *In fatal cases, some deaths are pending autopsy results for opioids and/or other substances. Numbers may fluctuate. If you or someone you know in Howard County needs help with an opioid or other drug issue, call 800-422-0009, 24-hours…
*The Howard County Police Department Reported 2017 Calendar Year Overdoses: In fatal cases, some deaths are pending autopsy results for opioids and/or other substances. Numbers may fluctuate. In 2017, there were a total of 57* overdose deaths and 171 non-fatal overdoses in Howard County.
