Narcan (Naloxone) is easy to use and can save a life. It quickly reverses an overdose by blocking the effects of opioids. It can restore normal breathing within 2-3 minutes in someone whose breathing has slowed or even stopped as of a result of an opioid overdose.
The Ohio County Health Department provides free Narcan for any of our residents who would like to keep a dose on hand in case of emergency.
A Narcan box containing Narcan and instructions for use is attached to the front of the health department for easy access. We are happy to teach you how to use Narcan if you would like more instructions.
SIGNS OF OPIOID OVERDOSE:
- Small, constricted pinpoint pupils
- Limp body
- Falling asleep or losing consciousness
- Slow, weak or no breathing
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Cold or clammy skin
- Discolored skin (especially in lips and nails)
WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK SOMEONE IS OVERDOSING
IT MAY BE HARD TO TELL WHETHER A PERSON IS EXPERIENCING AN OVERDOSE. If you aren’t sure, it’s best to treat the situation like an overdose you could save a life. Follow these steps:
- CALL 911
- ADMINISTER NALOXONE IF AVAILABLE
- TRY TO KEEP PERSON AWAKE AND BREATHING
- LAY THE PERSON ON THEIR SIDE TO PREVENT CHOKING
- STAY WITH THEM UNTIL EMERGENCY HELP ARRIVES
