In 2023, Missouri saw 1,948 deaths from drug overdoses, with 73% of them being attributed to opioids, according to Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. However, with the increased availability and accessibility of naloxone, there is hope for reducing these numbers. Naloxone provides a crucial opportunity to intervene in overdose situations and save lives, making it an essential tool in combating the opioid crisis across the state. By ensuring that more people are equipped with naloxone, we can work together to prevent further loss of life.
How Naloxone Works
Naloxone, often known by the name Narcan, is a life-saving medication approved by the FDA to rapidly reverse opioid overdoses. As an opioid antagonist, naloxone attaches to opioid receptors in the body, blocking and reversing the effects of drugs like heroin, morphine, and oxycodone. Administering naloxone during an overdose is a temporary but critical intervention that gives time until medical help can arrive.
Naloxone is Safe
- Minimal Side Effects: Naloxone is well-tolerated. Most side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, or temporary agitation, are mild and short-lived.
- No Risk of Overdose: You cannot overdose on naloxone. Even if administered to someone who isn’t experiencing an opioid overdose, it will not cause harm.
- User-Friendly: Naloxone is designed to be easy to use, even in stressful emergency situations.
- Legal Protections: Good Samaritan laws protect individuals who administer naloxone in good faith, ensuring legal safety while helping save lives.
Accessing Naloxone
Naloxone is now more accessible than ever. Both the nasal spray and injectable forms of naloxone are available for FREE from the Gibson Center for Behavioral Change’s Naloxone Vending Machine located at 620 S Kingshighway, Sikeston, MO 63801.
Being prepared with naloxone could save a life. Consider picking up a dose and learning how to use it – you never know when it could be needed.