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August 31st has been dedicated to International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). This is a global initiative with a four-fold purpose:
I am by no means an expert on this topic, but I do know about one very important thing anyone can do to help during opioid overdose.
Opioids are a class of pain-relieving medications that attach to opioid receptors in the brain. They are appealing because they help to decrease pain and increase pleasure.
In recent decades, the United States has seen a drastic increase in opioid usage – to the point there has been an opioid epidemic declared. It doesn’t matter whether the drugs were prescribed by a medical doctor (think oxycodone or hydrocodone) or used illegally (examples include heroin and fentanyl), opioid deaths have reached an all-time high.
Before we get to the best way to help during a drug overdose, it’s imperative that you know what signs to look for if you suspect someone is having an opioid emergency.
One of the best things you (or really anyone) can do if you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose following opioid use (confirmed or suspected), is to carry Narcan!
If you haven’t heard about Narcan, it’s a nasal spray that is available over-the-counter. It’s a prescription-strength brand used by first responders, that is designed to reverse the effects of an opioid emergency within 2-3 minutes. You can find it at most pharmacies.
Narcan is approved for use in adults and children of all ages.
To read more about NARCAN, click this link. The CDC also offers an online training specifically for when and how to use Naloxone (the drug used in Narcan). You can find more information on that training series here.
But for the sake of keeping things simple on this post, here are the essentials steps you should take to help during drug overdose emergencies:
**Be sure to talk to your insurance company or your pharmacist because there are some policies that cover Narcan!
You can purchase Narcan anywhere in the United States without a doctor’s prescription at your local pharmacy and many retail stores (Walmart and Target both carry it).
The retail cost for Narcan is $45 and you can use your FSA/HSA to purchase it. But check with your insurance company before you pay full price!
Dealing with any medical emergency can be super stressful. It’s hard to remember what steps to take in any given situation. But carrying a tube of nasal spray in your emergency kit is a simple way to be prepared to help if you find yourself dealing with someone who is experiencing drug overdose signs.
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