If someone near you is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately.
Narcan, the most common brand name for naloxone, is a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses temporarily. Naloxone works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as opioids (like heroin, fentanyl, or prescription painkillers), effectively blocking their effects and reversing an overdose. Having access to Narcan can save lives in an opioid overdose, and with the rise of fentanyl-related deaths in recent years, it’s a more important tool than ever.
No medication is a substitute for treatment, but Narcan can buy precious time to seek medical help and potentially save someone’s life. When it’s time for someone to seek treatment, Recovery Centers of America offers comprehensive care and support for people struggling with opioid use disorder.
How Does Narcan Work?
Naloxone works by binding to the same receptors as opioids in the brain, but it has a stronger affinity for these receptors. This means that it will not only block the effects of an opioid but reverse them as well. When someone is experiencing an overdose, their breathing slows down or stops completely. By blocking the effects of opioids on the brain, naloxone can restore normal breathing and consciousness temporarily.
Administering Narcan
Narcan is available as a nasal spray or intramuscular injection, making it easy to administer even for those without medical training. Another benefit of a nasal spray is that the person does not need to be conscious for Narcan to be administered. It works within minutes, and the effects can last up to 90 minutes. In some cases, additional doses may be needed if the individual has taken a powerful opioid like fentanyl.
Side Effects of Narcan
While Narcan (naloxone) is a life-saving medication with minimal side effects, it’s important to be aware of possible reactions. Common side effects may include withdrawal symptoms in those dependent on opioids, such as agitation, nausea, vomiting, and sweating. These symptoms can be distressing but are typically not life-threatening.
Narcan Interactions
Naloxone can interact with other medications. For instance, its use in patients taking certain sedatives, benzodiazepines, or alcohol can potentially lead to adverse effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have questions regarding medication interactions or your individual health circumstances before using Narcan. Remember, even after administering naloxone, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention as the effects of naloxone are temporary. Once they wear off, the symptoms of overdose can return, which is why medical intervention is critical.
When to Use Narcan
Naloxone should be used in any situation where an opioid overdose is suspected. It’s not harmful to administer naloxone if the person is not overdosing on opioids, and its effects are temporary. If you’re unsure if someone is experiencing an overdose, it’s better to err on the side of caution: administer Narcan and call 911.
Signs of an opioid overdose include:
- Slow or no breathing.
- Unconsciousness, inability to wake up, or unresponsiveness.
- Tiny pupils (pinpoint pupils).
If you witness any of these signs, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if available. If the person does not respond within 2-3 minutes after administering naloxone, administer a second dose and continue providing support until medical help arrives.
Laws Around Narcan and OTC Access
Narcan is available over-the-counter nationwide. This initiative ensures that individuals at risk of an overdose—and those who might witness one—can have immediate access to this life-saving medication.
Some states have implemented “Good Samaritan” laws that protect individuals who administer naloxone from legal repercussions. This means that if someone uses Narcan in an overdose situation, they are less likely to face civil or criminal liabilities, encouraging individuals to act quickly in emergencies without fear of legal consequences. As access to Narcan continues to expand, public awareness campaigns are essential to inform communities about its availability, usage, and the critical role it plays in saving lives during opioid overdoses.
Narcan and Harm Reduction
Narcan/naloxone access is one strategy in the harm reduction approach to substance use. Harm reduction aims to reduce the negative consequences associated with drug use, such as overdose deaths, without requiring abstinence as a prerequisite. While abstinence is ultimately the goal of recovery, harm reduction strategies recognize that not everyone is ready or able to stop using drugs immediately and seek to minimize potential risks until they are.
Narcan access is just one piece of the puzzle in preventing overdose deaths. By implementing harm reduction strategies and promoting awareness about Narcan’s availability, we can help save lives while working toward long-term recovery from opioid use disorder.
Reach Out to RCA for Help Today
If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid use disorder, it’s crucial to seek help as soon as possible. At Recovery Centers of America, we offer evidence-based treatment programs and support for individuals and families impacted by addiction. Contact a Treatment Advisor at 833.926.5486 today to learn more about our comprehensive care options and find the support needed for lasting recovery. Remember, Narcan access can save lives, but seeking treatment is essential for long-term wellness and healing.
