Narcan (naloxone) is a life-saving medication used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Individuals are encouraged to prepare themselves with this easy training to respond quickly and effectively in an overdose situation. Narcan saves lives.
Statistics reveal that opioid overdoses are one of the leading causes of death in the US for adults between 18-45 years old. An opioid is a class of drugs that is either synthetically produced or naturally derived from poppy plants, and prescribed by healthcare providers for pain relief, or can be illicit substances like heroin or powdered fentanyl. Examples of opioids are codeine, morphine, hydromorphone, methadone, fentanyl, and heroin. These highly addictive substances reduce the perception of pain by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. Thus, feelings of euphoria occur, and there is a risk of greater dependence. However, the danger is that opioids slow down heart and breathing rates, putting people at dire risk.
If someone is found unresponsive, you may administer Narcan, which will help restore breathing. It is also essential to call 911 as soon as possible if you encounter someone who is not breathing. Fortunately, administering Narcan will not harm anyone even if they have not overdosed. Narcan is safe for children as well. Narcan takes effect in 2-3 minutes, and if a person does not regain consciousness, it is safe to use another package to administer a dose in the other nostril.
Narcan is available at most pharmacies and some community health organizations. CCE proudly offers free Narcan training in English and Spanish, and provides kits. For more information, contact Cara Weiner Sultan at caw10@cornell.edu.
Watch this video from a physician at UC Davis to see Narcan administration:
https://youtu.be/Q8FjunfEUeg?si=n5IO2wGA9stSeWEG
Resources:
- https://suffolkstopaddiction.org/SUD/Naloxone
- https://www.naloxoneforall.org/newyork
- Never Use alone: (800) 484-3731
- https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline