Caring for Motherhood: Self-care

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Drug use disorder / drug misuse

Opioids are used to treat pain but can become an issue for those who take the substance over a long time or in large amounts. Examples of opioids are oxycodone (Roxycodone), hydrocodone (Lortab), fentanyl and heroin.

 Medications like buprenorphine (Subutex or Suboxone) and methadone can be used to treat opioid use disorder. They are both opioids and can control the symptoms of opioid use disorder. These medicines can contribute to a condition called Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS).

Discussing the risks and benefits of taking any medication with your doctor during your pregnancy is advised.

Use of other substances, such as methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, or alcohol can have a negative impact on both you and your baby. Women with substance use disorder often also deal with anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The good news is that if you are using these substances or have mental health concerns, there are services available to help you.

Tips

  • Talk to your provider if you need help quitting tobacco, alcohol, or drugs.
  • Medications should always be stored in a secure, locked location.
  •  Unused medication should be disposed of properly. Never take medication that is not prescribed to you. Talk to your ETSU Health provider if you need a medication lock box.
  • If you are taking opioids, talk to your healthcare provider to obtain a prescription for naloxone (Narcan™) to prevent overdose. Many pharmacies also provide the option of accessing naloxone without a prescription. Community organizations may offer naloxone free of charge with training on its use.
  • If you are taking opioids, it important to identify a family member or friend who could administer naloxone if you need it.

Did you know? Anyone taking opioids should also have naloxone (Narcan) available. Naloxone is an emergency medication to treat an overdose of opioids. Many insurers including TennCare cover the cost of naloxone with a prescription. When too much of an opioid is taken, breathing may become dangerously slow. Naloxone can help to reverse overdose and improve breathing. Always call 911 immediately if overdose is expected.

Resources

  • ETSU Health Baby Steps Program
    • Offers perinatal care coordination for families and a multi-disciplinary follow-up clinic for infants and children exposed to drugs before birth.
    • Schedule an appointment: (423) 439-7320 
    • Contact the Care Coordinator: (423) 433-7572
  • Families Free
  • ETSU Health Addiction Medicine
  • Overmountain Recovery Outpatient

    Opioid treatment and recovery: 1-833-371-0509

  • Frontier Health Crisis Hotline

    1-877-928-9062

  • Ballad Health STRONG Futures

    Addiction and mental health services and resources: 423-278-1696

  • Strongwell™
  • Insight Alliance
  • Sullivan County Anti-Drug Coalition

    423-742-2991

  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
    • National Helpline: 800-662-HELP (4357)
    • Free, confidential treatment referral/information service. Provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, community-based organizations.
  • Tennessee Redline

    For substance abuse referral assistance: 800-889-9789 (call or text)

  • Tennessee Overdose Prevention

     tnoverdoseprevention.org

  • Poison Control

    800-222-1222 (available 24 hours a day)