Narcan nasal spray, containing the life-saving drug naloxone, has become a crucial tool in the battle against opioid overdoses. This easy-to-administer medication can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, providing precious time for emergency medical services to arrive.  

In recent years, the opioid epidemic has claimed countless lives, making the availability of Narcan more important than ever. By equipping individuals, families, and first responders with this potentially lifesaving medication, communities can take proactive steps to prevent overdose deaths.

At this most recent National Night Out, Dignity Health and Mercy San Juan Hospital handed out free boxes of Narcan kits and Fentanyl dose tests. The Twin Rivers Unified School District Police Department has developed this flyer to help understand the signs of overdose and the steps for the administration of Narcan.

Narcan works by blocking the effects of opioids on the brain, restoring normal breathing and preventing death. It is essential to note that Narcan is not a treatment for opioid addiction but rather a temporary antidote. Even after administering Narcan, it is crucial to call emergency services immediately.  

Disclaimer: The information below is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow the instructions provided with your specific Narcan nasal spray product.

Narcan nasal spray is a life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.

Here’s a basic guide on how to use it:  

• Check for responsiveness: Determine if the person is unresponsive or not breathing normally. These are signs of a possible opioid overdose.
• Call 911 immediately: Even if you’re unsure if it’s an opioid overdose, it’s crucial to call emergency services right away.
• Prepare the Narcan: Remove the Narcan nasal spray from its packaging. Do not test the device beforehand.
• Position the person: Gently lay the person on their back and tilt their head back slightly.  
• Administer the Narcan:
  • Remove the tip of the nasal spray.
  • Insert the tip into one nostril, until your fingers on either side of the nozzle are against the bottom of the person’s nose.  
  • Press the plunger firmly to deliver the dose.  
  • Remove the Narcan nasal spray from the nostril.  
• Monitor the person: Continue to monitor the person’s breathing and responsiveness. If there’s no improvement within a few minutes, you can administer a second dose in the other nostril.  
• Wait for emergency medical services: Stay with the person until help arrives.

Important: Narcan is a temporary measure. Even if the person wakes up, they should still be evaluated by medical professionals.

Remember, it’s crucial to complete a training course on how to administer Narcan. Many communities offer free training programs.

The increasing accessibility of Narcan has been a game-changer. Many states have implemented laws to make the medication available without a prescription, allowing for wider distribution and use. Additionally, educational campaigns have raised awareness about the signs of an opioid overdose and the importance of having Narcan on hand.  

While Narcan is a vital tool in combating the opioid crisis, it is essential to address the root causes of addiction. This includes expanding access to treatment and recovery services, reducing stigma associated with substance use disorders, and preventing opioid misuse in the first place.

By combining efforts to prevent opioid overdoses, increase access to Narcan, and provide comprehensive addiction treatment, communities can work towards a future where fewer lives are lost to this devastating epidemic.

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