Key Takeaways
- Narcan (naloxone) nasal spray is a crucial weapon that can help in saving lives in opioid overdose situations.
- It is available and user-friendly and, therefore, important in emergency responses.
- Community education and adequate training in Narcan use are needed for practical application.
Introduction
The USA is facing an opioid crisis as a significant public health problem, and the number of opioid-related overdoses is increasing every year. Narcan nasal spray is now an essential tool in the fight against the crisis. This drug is used for the treatment of the effects of opioid overdose, which is crucial in emergency cases. The article explains Narcan, who should use it, when and how to use it, its availability, and the need for community awareness and training.
What is Narcan Nasal Spray?
Narcan nasal spray contains naloxone, an opioid antagonist that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Unlike other forms of naloxone requiring intravenous access, Narcan nasal spray is designed for easy administration without medical training. When sprayed into the nostril, Narcan blocks the effects of opioids on the brain, rapidly restoring normal breathing to a person who has overdosed on opioids such as heroin, morphine, or fentanyl.
Recognizing the Need for Narcan
Recognizing when to use Narcan is crucial for effective intervention in opioid overdose situations. Signs of an opioid overdose include small, constricted “pinpoint pupils,” unconsciousness, and respiratory depression, which is characterized by slow, irregular breathing or no breathing at all. Other symptoms may include choking sounds, a limp body, pale, blue, or cold skin, and vomiting. Quick identification of these symptoms and immediate administration of Narcan can be the difference between life and death.
How to Use Narcan Nasal Spray
Using Narcan nasal spray is straightforward:
- Identify the signs of an overdose: If someone exhibits signs of an opioid overdose, acting quickly is crucial.
- Call for emergency help: Always call 911 before administering Narcan, as medical follow-up is necessary.
- Administer Narcan: Hold the spray device between your fingers and thumb, place the tip of the nozzle in one nostril of the patient lying on their back, and firmly press the plunger to release the dose.
- Monitor the individual: After administering Narcan, gently turn the individual on their side (recovery position) and monitor their breathing and responsiveness. If there is no response within two to three minutes, administer a second dose if available.
- Stay with the individual until help arrives: Monitor the individual as Narcan can wear off, and symptoms may return.
Accessibility of Narcan
Narcan nasal spray is widely available and can be purchased at pharmacies, often without a prescription, due to standing orders in many states that aim to increase accessibility. It is also available in many public buildings, schools, libraries, and community outreach programs. The goal is to make Narcan as accessible as a fire extinguisher because when it comes to opioid overdoses, every second counts.
Promoting Community Awareness and Training
Public awareness of an opioid overdose and how to use Narcan is a critical aspect of the war against the opioid crisis. Many communities provide Narcan training classes for free and can help people save lives. Public information campaigns and collaborations with local businesses and organizations can also increase awareness and preparedness.
Conclusion
Narcan nasal spray is an essential tool in the fight against the opioid epidemic. By understanding how to use Narcan and ensuring it is readily accessible, communities can better respond to opioid overdoses and save lives. Remember, if you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, reaching out for help can make all the difference. Contact Virtue Recovery Center at 866-520-2861 for support.
FAQs
Is Narcan safe to use?
Yes, Narcan is safe and only affects individuals who have opioids in their system; it does not affect those who do not.
Can Narcan be used on children?
Yes, Narcan can be safely used on children and infants suspected of opioid overdose.
Do I need training to use Narcan?
While no medical training is required, familiarizing yourself with the instructions and possibly attending a training session can increase your confidence and effectiveness in administering it.
Can you overdose on Narcan?
An overdose of Narcan is not possible, and it is designed to be non-harmful even if administered when an opioid overdose has not occurred.
What should I do after administering Narcan?
Call emergency services after administering Narcan, as further medical intervention may be necessary.
How quickly does Narcan work?
Narcan typically begins to work within 2 to 3 minutes, but a second dose may be necessary if there’s no initial response.
How long does Narcan’s effect last?
Narcan effects can last for 30 to 90 minutes, but most opioids last longer, so medical help should be sought immediately.
Where can I get Narcan?
Narcan is available at most pharmacies, some community centers, public health clinics, and often through local emergency responders.
Does Narcan have any side effects?
The most common side effect is opioid withdrawal symptoms in dependent individuals, which, while uncomfortable, are not life-threatening.
Why is Narcan important?
Narcan is important as it offers a brief period for medical assistance to come and additional treatment to be administered in opioid overdose cases that can be life-saving.
Resources
https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/basics/epidemic.html
https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/heroin
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682133.html
https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/fentanyl
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Nicki Lugo is currently employed as Clinical Director at Virtue Recovery Center in Las Vegas. Nicki is a licensed clinical professional counselor (CPC) in the state of Nevada and a licensed associate counselor (LAC) in the state of Arizona. She is also a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC) in Nevada. Additionally, Nicki has specialized training in treating trauma and is a certified clinical trauma specialist (CCTS).
Nicki has earned a Master of Science degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Behavioral Health from the University of Phoenix and a Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Currently, Nicki is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling Education and Supervision at Grand Canyon University. Nicki’s research interests include the use of Positive Psychology interventions with dual diagnosis clients. Nicki hopes to contribute to the body of knowledge in treating substance use disorders.
Nicki’s long-term career goals include advancing in leadership roles within Virtue Recovery Center which is a quickly growing substance use disorder treatment facility. She hopes that one day her research and advocacy will help to save the lives of those who have been affected by substance use. She likes to say that advocacy is her passion and leadership is her superpower.
