A personalized plan outlining steps to reduce the risk of overdose and what to do if an overdose happens.
In the context of addiction treatment:
Often developed in harm-reduction programs, MOUD treatment, or early recovery, especially for people at high risk (recent detox, fentanyl exposure, mixing substances).
What to know:
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Typically includes: not using alone, testing small amounts first, keeping naloxone on hand, and having someone who knows how to respond.
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Also considers high-risk times (after jail, after detox, after inpatient treatment) when tolerance is lower.
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Family and friends can be part of the plan by learning signs of overdose and how to use naloxone.
Example:
After leaving residential treatment, a client with a history of overdose works with their counselor to create an overdose prevention plan that includes naloxone training for their roommates.