Opioid Based Medication: Education and Awareness for Montanans
Opioid medicines can help with pain after an injury or surgery. When you take them the way your doctor says, and only for a short time, they can be helpful. But every medicine has risks. Learning about those risks helps you make safe choices.
Welcome to MSU Extension Opioid Education and Awareness website.
We’re here to share simple, trusted information that helps you and your loved ones stay healthy.
This site is for all individuals, families, caregivers, and people who work in health care. You'll learn how to use opioid medicines safely, how to store them, and how to get rid of them the right way. You’ll find ways to prevent overdose and where to go for help if you or someone you love needs support or treatment.
You’ll find information here about stimulant medicines too, including how they can affect kids and young adults.

If you need help right now:
- Call 911 in an overdose emergency
- Call or text 988 for mental health or substance use crisis support
- Find treatment in Montana

Not sure what provider is right for you? Access our free resource Understanding and Finding Mental Health Providers
- Naloxone saves lives, learn how to access it in Montana
If someone you know needs help right now
Access our free resource guide. This guide provides a decision chart on how to recognize warning signs of those in distress and figure out a course of action. It is available in English, Spanish, and
For questions or to learn more about community education programming, please contact MSU Extension specialists Michelle Grocke and Alison Brennan using the information below.




