GF sees increase in opioid overdoses

Grand Forks is seeing an uptick in opioid drug overdoses in 2021. The Grand Forks Police Department says there have been 37 suspected O-D’s…and three opioid overdose deaths…so far this year. Officers have also administered the overdose reverse medication naloxone 19 times this year – and the fire department eight times.

Grand Forks Opioid Response Coordinator Michael Dulitz says they are seeing more counterfeit pills – appearing to be 30 mg oxycodone tablets – which contain fentanyl.

Dulitz says s pharmaceutical opioids become harder to get many illicit producers are trying to sell counterfeit pills as pharmaceutical opioids.

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In light of this increase, Grand Forks Public Health reminds anyone with illicitly purchased drugs to avoid their use, and if they are used, to follow these suggestions:

Do not use substances alone.
Carry naloxone, and teach your loved ones how to use it.
1. Naloxone can be obtained at no cost in Grand Forks from:

Inspire Pharmacy
Thrifty White Pharmacy

The APC Project SSP, or by texting (701) 335-6051

Never assume what a pill has in it based on the imprints or based on past use. Composition can vary widely from pill to pill, due to clumping of substances.
If you are having trouble with addiction or dependence, reach out for help – local resources include, but are not limited to:
1. Spectra Health – 701-757-2100
2. Agassiz Associates – 701-746-6336
3. North Dakota 211
4. RiverView Recovery Center – 701-740-3606
If you need help learning about connections to treatment options, safer use, or naloxone, you can call, text, or visit the APC Project Syringe Service Program, which is in the Spectra Health Building located at 212 S 4^th Street, Grand Forks, ND.
1. Hours:

Monday: 11-3
Thursday: 11-3