August 31 marks International Overdose Awareness Day, a time to remember those who struggle with drug addiction and raise awareness about preventing drug overdoses.
Opioid overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the United States, presenting an ever-growing need for adequate education. As of 2023, approximately 222 people die from an opioid overdose every day. Even more concerning is the fact that 2/3 of the people who die from overdoses have potential bystanders present, but most do not respond to the overdose, largely attributed to a lack of awareness.
What are the signs of a drug overdose? Here are some common symptoms to look for:
- Blue/gray lips or fingertips
- Cold or clammy skin
- Limp body
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Tiny pupils
- Unresponsiveness
If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose and you have Narcan, take the following steps to administer:
- Lay: Lay the person on their back and tilt their head up.
- Spray: Insert the device into either nostril and press plunger firmly.
- Stay: Call 911 immediately after giving the first dose. Continue to give doses as needed and wait with the person until help arrives.
Understanding the signs of an overdose and knowing how to administer Narcan can make a significant difference in preventing fatal outcomes. Promoting education and access to naloxone encourages individuals to respond effectively to opioid overdoses and contribute to reducing the tragic impact of drug addiction on our communities.
Narcan, or naloxone, is an opioid antagonist, working to block uptake of opioids in the brain, reversing the effects of overdose. Unlike Epinephrine, also referred to as an EpiPen, which only counteracts allergic reactions, naloxone replaces the opioid in the brain’s receptors, so it cannot cause additional harm. Naloxone only has an impact on overdoses caused by opioids and does not interact with non-opioid drugs.
Narcan can cause withdrawal symptoms, which are often uncomfortable but not life-threatening.
Since the adverse effects of opioids can last longer than the treatment from naloxone, it is essential to still call 911 immediately after administering the first dose. The person may relapse into symptoms that can become life-threatening without proper medical intervention.
Anyone can carry Narcan, you don’t even need a prescription. People who should especially consider carrying naloxone include:
- People currently prescribed high total daily doses of prescription opioids for pain or are taking opioids along with alcohol and/or sedatives
- People with a history of overdose or opioid-use disorder
- People with active opioid use disorder
- Anyone who uses drugs known to be contaminated with the powerful opioid, fentanyl, including drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines
- Anyone who knows, or is commonly around any person described in the above categories
- People living and/or working in areas that see high rates of opioid overdose
Anyone with opioid prescriptions at home should have naloxone in cases of accidental ingestion, especially if children live in the home.
