If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, then you know that overdoses are always a looming threat. The number of deaths from these medications in the United States has risen to over 40,000 a year, or 115 per day, over the last several years. That’s why it’s important to be prepared with Narcan and to know how it works.
What is Narcan, and How Does it Work?
Narcan is the brand name for naloxone, a medication that can be used to reverse an opioid overdose. It works by binding to opioid receptors and blocking the effects of opioids. This can help to restore breathing and consciousness in someone who has overdosed. It is available as a nasal spray or an injection, and it can be purchased without a prescription in many states. In addition, it will also help if you know which opioid overdose reversal nasal spray is best between Nyxoid vs. Narcan, as it will give you more options in an emergency. This type of medication is also known as an “opioid antagonist.”
Narcan is not a substitute for medical care, and it should only be used in an emergency situation. If you have been prescribed Narcan, be sure to keep it with you at all times and know how to use it. It is also important to remember that the effect of Narcan does not last forever, so multiple doses may be needed if the person continues to use opioids. If you would like to learn more about Narcan, you may consider listening to the Narcan podcast, as it contains a wealth of information on the subject.
How to Use Narcan?
If you suspect that someone has overdosed on opioids, it is important to call 911 immediately. While you are waiting for medical help to arrive, you can administer Narcan if you have it. The first step is to identify that the person is indeed experiencing an overdose. Symptoms of an overdose include slow or no breathing, blue lips or fingers, and a loss of consciousness. If you are unsure whether the person is truly experiencing an overdose, it is better to err on the side of caution and administer Narcan anyway.
If the person is lying down, place them on their side to prevent them from choking on their own vomit. Next, carefully follow the instructions for using Narcan that come with the medication. This will vary depending on whether you are using the nasal spray or injection. Once Narcan has been administered, stay with the person and continue to monitor their breathing and consciousness. It is important to remember that Narcan is not a cure, and the person will still need medical help.
To Conclude
With the help of this article, you now understand what Narcan is, how it works, and how to use it. Although it is not a cure, Narcan can save lives by reversing the effects of an opioid overdose. If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, be sure to keep Narcan on hand and know how to use it. Remember, in the case of an overdose, every second counts.
