Medical Examiner: Sustained Increase in Suspected Overdose Deaths

CUYAHOGA COUNTY – Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner Dr. Thomas Gilson today issued a public health alert, stating that Cuyahoga County has seen a sustained increase in suspected overdose deaths during October and November. There were 40 suspected drug overdose deaths over the five-week period, including 17 Black decedents.

“While things have improved, it is important to remember that we still see drug overdoses, especially involving cocaine and our Black population,” Dr. Gilson warned. “Prevention and treatment of drug use work, and are as important as ever.”

Over the past few years, Cuyahoga County has seen a downward trend in the number of fentanyl-related overdose deaths. As a result of this decrease, cocaine now drives all drug overdose deaths in the county.

In this alert, a majority of preliminary drug screenings were positive for cocaine, however half also included fentanyl. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office will continue to evaluate their data and data from community partners to determine if there is more to the upward trend.

Consider developing a personal harm reduction plan if you or anyone that you know is actively using or recovering from substance use disorder. Harm reduction plans can include the following:

• Identify the signs and symptoms of a cocaine overdose. Dizziness, confusion, shortness of breath, heavy sweating, racing pulse, paranoia, chest pain, seizure and unresponsiveness.
• Have Naloxone and fentanyl test strips ready. Naloxone and fentanyl test strips will work with most fentanyl analogues.
• Don’t use drugs alone. There is a much higher risk of fatally overdosing if another person is not monitoring.
• Sit upright. Sitting upright can reduce the risk of slumping forward in an overdose – potentially causing airway obstruction.
• Call 911 (Good Samaritan). The Good Samaritan Law provides immunity for a minor drug possession or drug paraphernalia offense for the person who overdosed and the person who called 911 to seek help.
• Seek Treatment. As with most chronic diseases, addiction is treatable. While treatment may vary upon an individual’s needs, recovery is possible.

For a list of community resources, please visit:
drughelp.care/signsofOD
testyourdrugscc.com
metrohealth.org/office-of-opioid-safety/project-dawn

Additionally, the Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board of Cuyahoga County provides a 24-hour crisis hotline at 216-623-6888.