Right now, someone around you is at risk of an overdose. Because an overdose can happen anywhere, it’s important to be able to respond quickly when one occurs. Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can prevent a fatal opioid overdose. It’s the single best way to help when an overdose happens.
Naloxone (also called Narcan) works by temporarily stopping the effects of opioids on the brain and body. It’s safe, simple, easy to administer, and begins working immediately to reverse an overdose. Naloxone is safe to use on children and won’t cause any negative effects if someone is not overdosing on opioids. There’s no risk in using it if you aren’t sure. Learning how to use naloxone takes only a few minutes, and it’s small enough to carry with you anywhere you go.
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Drugs that may contain fentanyl have been found throughout Allegheny County, so naloxone is an important safety measure whether you or someone you know uses opioids, fentanyl, or other types of drugs. Remember, an overdose can happen anywhere. Carrying naloxone is important whether you use drugs or not, because you might be the best first responder when an overdose happens.
To request free, no-cost naloxone/Narcan, visit https://alleghenycounty.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_738ngiMxskLbj3D
To request naloxone/Narcan training for your business or organization, visit https://alleghenycounty.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1IbVq8SkmOfIBCJ
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Naloxone works by temporarily replacing opioids in the brain’s opiate receptors, which restores proper breathing and lung function in a person experiencing overdose. It’s safe to use on practically anyone, including children. There are no dangerous side effects associated with naloxone, though it may cause withdrawal symptoms in someone who has overdosed on opioids. Naloxone won’t harm a person who hasn’t used opioids, so it’s recommended to administer naloxone to anyone showing signs of possible overdose, even if you don’t know whether opioids are present in their system. Because naloxone usually wears off in 30-90 minutes, it’s important to call 911 and stay with them until they receive professional medical care.
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If you use drugs, carrying naloxone is vital to keeping yourself and others safe from overdose. And if you don’t use drugs, naloxone can help you save the life of a friend, family member, neighbor, or loved one.
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Pennsylvania state law allows for access to naloxone at local pharmacies without a prescription. It’s also available through harm reduction programs across Allegheny County. To request naloxone or naloxone training, visit ACHD here.
Or: Visit our resources page to learn more about where you can get naloxone today.