Saving Lives with Narcan
Identifying Opioid Overdose and Effective Response
9/19/2024
Rebecca Thao, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident
According to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 80,000 opioid-related
deaths were reported in the U.S. in 2022 alone. This stark statistic
underscores the urgent need to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and
understand how to administer Narcan effectively.
Opioid Awareness Day
(September 21) is a vital time to educate ourselves on the dangers of opioid
misuse and the life-saving potential of Narcan (naloxone).
“Opioid overdose is
when patients have more opioids in their system than they can tolerate. Opioids
are typically prescribed for pain management,” explains Rebecca Thao, Aspirus
Pharmacy Resident.
While opioids can be
effective when used as directed, misuse can lead to life-threatening
situations. Recognizing the signs of an overdose early is crucial for
intervention.
Common symptoms of
an opioid overdose include extreme drowsiness, blue-tinted skin or lips (often
on the fingertips), and an inability to stay awake or respond. “If you notice
someone displaying these symptoms, it’s important to act quickly,” says Thao. These
signs suggest that the body is overwhelmed by the opioids, and without prompt
action, the situation can escalate rapidly.
Narcan is a
medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It comes in
three forms: nasal spray, intramuscular injection, and intravenous injection.
“The nasal spray is
the most common and user-friendly version,” Thao notes. “It works by binding to
the same area in the brain that the opioid binds to, eliminating the harmful
effects of the opioids.” Narcan is widely available over the counter at most pharmacies,
making it accessible to anyone who may need it.
Administering Narcan
is straightforward. As Thao explains, "You don’t need medical training for
it. Anyone could do it."
To use the nasal
spray, tilt the person’s head back, insert the nozzle into one nostril, and
press the plunger. If the individual doesn’t respond within two to three
minutes, a second dose should be administered in the other nostril.
"Even if you're
unsure if someone is overdosing, it's better to give Narcan than to risk their
life." Narcan will not harm someone who is not experiencing an overdose,
so there is no risk in administering it if you suspect an emergency.
The National
Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) recommends calling 911 immediately after
administering Narcan to ensure the individual receives prompt medical
attention.
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