The Basics of Narcan
Opioid overdoses have become a significant public health crisis in recent years. These overdoses can be fatal, but with the availability of Narcan, a life-saving medication, many lives can be saved. In this blog post, we'll discuss what Narcan is, how it works, and how to administer it.
What is Narcan?
Narcan, also known as naloxone, is a medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses. It works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain, essentially waking up a person who has overdosed. Narcan is a nasal spray or an injection that can be administered by anyone, regardless of medical training.
How Does Narcan Work?
Opioids, such as heroin, prescription pain relievers, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl, work by binding to specific receptors in the brain. When these receptors are activated, they slow down the body's functions, including breathing. In an overdose, the breathing slows down so much that it can stop altogether.
Narcan works by competing with opioids for these receptors. When Narcan binds to the receptors, it displaces the opioids, effectively blocking their effects. This allows the body to resume normal breathing.
How to Administer Narcan
Administering Narcan is relatively simple. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Check for Responsiveness: Gently shake the person's shoulder and ask if they are okay. If they don't respond, check for a pulse.
Call for Help: Even if you're going to administer Narcan, it's crucial to call emergency services immediately. They can provide additional medical assistance and transport the person to the hospital if necessary.
Administer Narcan: For a nasal spray, tilt the person's head back and insert the spray into one nostril. Press down on the plunger and repeat in the other nostril if needed. For an injection, inject the medication into the person's thigh or upper arm.
Monitor the Person: After administering Narcan, stay with the person and monitor their breathing. They may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as shaking, sweating, or nausea.
Important Considerations
Time is of the Essence: Opioid overdoses can be fatal very quickly. It's essential to administer Narcan as soon as possible.
Multiple Doses May Be Necessary: In some cases, multiple doses of Narcan may be required to reverse the effects of an overdose.
Narcan Does Not Treat Underlying Addiction: While Narcan can save lives, it doesn't address the underlying addiction problem. People who have overdosed should seek professional help to manage their addiction.
Narcan is Safe: Narcan is a safe medication, even for people who haven't overdosed. If you're unsure whether someone has overdosed, it's better to err on the side of caution and administer Narcan.
Narcan is a valuable tool in the fight against opioid overdoses. By understanding what it is, how it works, and how to administer it, you can help save lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, please reach out to us for help. We are a resource available to support you on your journey to recovery.
