Which factors increase the risk of overdose for opioid users?

Reducing tolerance after a period of sobriety significantly increases the risk of overdose for opioid users. When someone stops using opioids, their body can lose its ability to handle the drug, and if they resume using at their previous dosage, they might inadvertently consume a lethal amount. This is critical to understand, as one’s body can become desensitized to the effects of opioids over time, making previously used dosages dangerous after periods of abstinence.

Mixing opioids with alcohol is another major risk factor, as both substances are depressants that can lead to respiratory depression. The combined effect can enhance the sedative properties of both, increasing the likelihood of overdose. Operating under the misconception that mixing these substances is safe can have fatal consequences.

Using a friend’s medication to manage withdrawal also presents risks. Without proper guidance and a prescription, a person might use a dosage that is too high or a medication that is unsuitable for their specific situation, thus increasing the risk of overdose.

The correct answer reflects the necessity of recognizing multiple risk factors that contribute to overdose among opioid users, particularly those related to changes in tolerance and the dangers of mixing substances.