Considering Carrying Naloxone? What You Need to Know
With the continuing opioid epidemic in Appalachia and beyond, you may have heard about the use of Naloxone (or Narcan) as a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. You may have heard about it on the news, or you could know a first responder who uses it as part of their job. Perhaps you’ve considered carrying it yourself!
Firstly, it’s important to understand what naloxone is, how it works, and why it is used. Naloxone can be used in the form of a nasal spray, intramuscular injection, or intravenous injection. Most laypersons who carry naloxone carry the nasal spray, as it is the simplest to administer. It can be purchased over the counter and may even be covered by your insurance. Many of these nasal sprays are already fully assembled and ready to use. It is a very safe medication with minimal side effects, and it is nonaddictive. Naloxone itself cannot cause an overdose, so multiple doses can be safely administered.
Naloxone can restart breathing and central nervous system activity in a person experiencing an overdose. It has a stronger affinity for the opioid receptors in the brain than opioids themselves, and can temporarily reverse the life-threatening symptoms of an overdose. It is important to note that naloxone only works for overdoses on opioids, so it will not be effective for overdoses on other substances. However, several other substances like cocaine and MDMA can be laced with fentanyl and other opioids, so it is possible to consume opioids unintentionally.
People may choose to carry naloxone for a variety of reasons. They may have a loved one who uses substances, be an ally for the recovery community, be in recovery themselves, or have had their own life saved by naloxone. No matter the circumstances, those who carry naloxone recognize it as a harm-reduction measure. While there will always be dangers associated with using opioids or any unprescribed substance, naloxone can provide a second chance for those who use opioids to receive treatment and change their relationship with substances.
If you do choose to purchase naloxone, familiarize yourself with the box’s included instructions and information. Does the box contain one dose or two? Is it already fully assembled and ready for use, or will you need to learn how to assemble it yourself? How should it be stored? When is it dated to expire? Generally, naloxone should not be exposed to extreme temperatures, and will have an expiration date a few years after its purchase.
Your box should also contain instructions on how to administer your specific type of naloxone, but The Safe Project is also a fantastic resource and provides step-by-step instructions on what you should do before, during, and after administration. If you do encounter a situation in which an overdose may have occurred, you should first attempt to wake the person up. If they are unresponsive, naloxone may be needed. After administration, you should call 911, and stay with the person if it is safe to do so. Another dose of naloxone may be necessary if the first dose is ineffective. When the first responders arrive, be sure to answer their questions as accurately as possible.
It is also extremely important to be respectful of the person who has been administered naloxone. When they wake up, explain what has happened and be empathetic with them. Don’t make any assumptions about their character or history with substance use, and don’t force them to stay if they would prefer to leave the area. No matter if they choose to leave or accept help from first responders, you have done your part, and their recovery timeline is their decision alone.
Making the decision to carry naloxone requires a great deal of thought and consideration. Some who carry naloxone may have to use it on numerous occasions, while others may never need to use it at all. However, like choosing to learn CPR or first aid, carrying naloxone may create pressure to intervene if someone is experiencing a life-threatening event. If you’re unsure about taking on this responsibility, it may help to receive an in-person naloxone training or receive free naloxone from someone who is available to answer any of your questions. The Monongalia County Quick Response Team hosts naloxone training and distribution days throughout the year and by request. Additionally, if you are affiliated with West Virginia University, WELLWVU offers naloxone trainings by request and on scheduled drop-in dates throughout the academic year.
For information sources, visit WELLWVU, Monongalia County Quick Response Team, and The Safe Project.