Date: Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Arizona time (MST = PDT)
Registration Link: Register Here
Description:
The latest wave of the opioid epidemic is marked by rampant nonpharmaceutical fentanyl, rising concurrent stimulant use, and newly introduced opioids including kratom and its synthetic derivatives. Additionally, we are contending with a new landscape of adulterants such as xylazine and medetomidine. Management of opioid overdose by frontline healthcare providers is a key link in the chain of survival and thus recovery from opioid use disorder.
Join Dr. Jaiva Larsen, M.D., emergency physician, medical toxicologist, and addiction medicine physician from the University of Arizona for a discussion of the current realities of opioid overdose response and addiction care.
This session will examine how fentanyl and other synthetic psychoactive substances are changing overdose presentations, how responders can rapidly recognize life-threatening toxidromes, and which evidence-based interventions are most effective. We will also discuss understanding and treating opioid use disorder to prevent overdoses before they happen by treating the underlying illness.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the signs and symptoms of opioid overdose and emerging polysubstance overdose presentations
• Apply best strategies for naloxone administration, initial stabilization, and supportive care during opioid overdose emergencies
• Promote compassion and hope for patients with opioid use disorder and understand the available evidence-based treatments
Continuing Medical Education:
Accreditation Statement
The University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Relevant Financial Relationships Statement(s):
University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson Office of Continuing Medical Education adheres to the ACCME's Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education. Any individuals in a position to control the content of a CME activity, including faculty, planners, reviewers or others are required to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible entities (commercial interests). The CME office reviewers have nothing to disclose. All relevant financial relationships have been mitigated prior to the commencement of the activity.
