Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is the opioid reversal drug used to help someone who is experiencing an overdose from an opioid drug. The class of prescription opioids consists of medications prescribed by doctors to treat severe pain such as oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), fentanyl, morphine, and methadone. Naloxone is also administered to reverse an overdose caused by illicit drugs such as heroin and synthetic fentanyl.
In 2018, the U.S. Surgeon General, Jerome Adams, issued an advisory that encouraged Americans to routinely carry naloxone, especially anyone who has a loved one at risk of an overdose. Today, it is common to see naloxone being kept in homes, as well as placed in businesses, schools and government buildings next to AED equipment.
Up North Prevention is offering free overdose reversal training either virtually or in-person to anyone interested in learning the signs and symptoms of an overdose and how to administer the nasal spray Narcan. Past participants have included law enforcement, educators, medical professionals, family members with a loved one suffering from an opioid misuse disorder, service clubs or individuals who want to be prepared to help someone in need.
The one-hour training is designed to be interactive, informative, and appropriate for any audience, and has reached more than 1,000 people in Northern Michigan. Each person who attends the training will receive a double dose kit of Narcan.
