According to the Vital Statistics Rapid Release, drug overdoses in Texas have been predicted to reportedly increase by over 32% from January 2020 to January 2021. The most commonly used drug has been opioids. Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others (Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse). UNIDAD Coalition strives to provide resources and information focused on substance use prevention for substances such as opioids in Hidalgo County. The Coalition has Deterra pouches available for community members wanting to safely dispose of prescription medication in the comfort of their own homes. These pouches allow for liquids, patches and pills to be deactivated and safe to throw into the trash rather than being flushed down the toilet. If you or someone you know needs these pouches, you can reach us at (956)783-
7897 Ext. 224 and we will get the pouches to you. If you prefer to dispose of them at any of our 14 permanent prescription medication drop boxes throughout Hidalgo County, you can find those locations listed at www.bhsst.org.