What is an Opioid?

teen boy sitting on a stoop with head in handsWhat is an opioid? Opioids are drugs that work in the brain to relieve pain. They can produce a high and can make a person feel drowsy and nauseous. Opioids include medicine made from the poppy plant (opium, morphine, and codeine) and those made synthetically (artificially) such as oxycodone, methadone, fentanyl, and hydrocodone. Some people are given opioids by their doctor to address painful conditions or injuries, but opioids are also sold and used illegally, including heroin, “street” fentanyl, oxycodone, methadone, and morphine.


FAQs About Naloxone

In response to the opioid crisis in New Hampshire, the state has created the Anyone. Anytime.NH Campaign to educate the public and professionals about addiction, emergency overdose medication and accessibility to support services for those experiencing opioid use disorder. Existence of two NH laws specific to naloxone (Narcan) are as follows:

  1. HB 271 (RSA 318-B:15), which allows for a broad prescribing, dispensing, and distribution of naloxone (a rescue drug commonly known as Narcan); and
  2. HB 270 (RSA 318-B:28b) also known as “the Good Samaritan law” which provides protections for individuals administering the drug and protections from drug possession (e.g. heroin) charges, and prescription opioids thereby reducing the number of deaths caused by overdose.

Campaign Aim

The Anyone.Anytime.NH campaign is a statewide, multi-prong effort aimed at connecting people in New Hampshire who are experiencing drug or alcohol issues or seeking information to The Doorways NH. The campaign raises awareness about substance use disorders, recovery, and how to save a life. Anyone, anytime, can find help at a Doorway. You are not alone. Help is available now.

Questions, comments, or suggestions to pass along to the Anyone.Anytime. campaign? Contact Us.