Reversing An Overdose Isn't Complicated, But Getting The Antidote Can Be

Of Interest
Should you carry the opioid overdose rescue drug naloxone?
Posted May 04, 2018, 6:30 am , Updated May 07, 2018, 11:57 am

Scott Weiner, MD
I would answer “yes” but with some qualifiers. As the Surgeon General wrote, naloxone is most effective for people taking high doses of opioids, who are misusing prescription opioids, or who are using illicit opioids. It makes sense to have naloxone on hand if you fall into one of these categories, or if you are a friend, family member, or community member who comes into contact with people at risk for overdose. You should also know that in most states, you can request naloxone at most pharmacies without a prescription.

Full article: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/should-you-carry-the-opioid-overdose-rescue-drug-naloxone-2018050413773

Reversing An Overdose Isn't Complicated, But Getting The Antidote Can Be

May 7, 20185:01 AM ET
Jake Harper

Heard on Morning Edition

A few months ago, Kourtnaye Sturgeon helped save someone's life. She was driving in downtown Indianapolis when she saw people gathered around a car on the side of the road. Sturgeon pulled over and a man told her there was nothing she could do: Two men had overdosed on opioids and appeared to be dead.

"I kind of recall saying, 'No man, I've got Narcan,' " she says, referring to the brand- name version of the opioid overdose antidote, naloxone. "Which sounds so silly, but I'm pretty sure that's what came out."

Sturgeon sprayed a dose of the drug up the driver's nose, and waited for it to take effect. About a minute later, she says, the paramedics showed up.

View Article: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2018/05/07/607760827/reversing-an-overdose-isnt-complicated-but-getting-the-antidote-can-be