Fentanyl is a formidable synthetic opioid, and in recent years, the increase in its use as a street drug has made it an extreme danger to communities across America. Naxalone, or Narcan’s ability to reverse the effects of a fentanyl overdose, makes it a powerful weapon in saving lives. Knowing how to use Narcan, is becoming increasingly important not just for medical professionals but for laypeople who regularly come into contact with those who misuse fentanyl.
If you or someone you love is experiencing opioid addiction, it’s time to get help. Right Step Hill Country is here to provide you with everything you need to take control of your life. Contact us today at 1.844.675.1628 for information about our fentanyl addiction treatment program.
How to Use Narcan, and Save a Life
Narcan, is a brand name for the generic drug naxalone and was created to reverse opioid overdoses rapidly. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain, displacing the opioid molecules and effectively blocks their effects. This reversal process can restore breathing and consciousness in a matter of minutes, making it the difference between life and death for many people facing fentanyl overdose. But it’s important to know when and how to use Narcan, effectively. The steps for utilizing Narcan, should include the following:
1. Recognize a Fentanyl Overdose
Before understanding how to use Narcan, it’s important to understand whether what you’re witnessing is a fentanyl overdose. Once you do, it’s essential to move quickly towards the administration of Narcan. Fentanyl overdose signs include someone being unresponsive to touch and voice, slow or no breathing, pinpoint pupils, and a body that’s gone limp. If these symptoms are present, the person is likely experiencing fentanyl overdose. Call emergency services as you are beginning to administer Narcan, You want to make sure that professional help is on the way.
2. Administer Narcan®
Narcan is available in two forms: a nasal spray and an injectable form. It’s important to understand how you would use either kind:
- Nasal spray – Tilt the person’s head back and provide support under the neck. Gently insert the nozzle into one nostril and press the plunger firmly. It’s not necessary to spray into both nostrils. Continue to spray every two to three minutes until the individual regains consciousness.1
- Injectable form – If using an injectable form, insert the needle into the muscle (preferably the thigh or upper arm) and push the plunger.
3. Provide Rescue Breathing
If the person isn’t breathing, provide rescue breathing by tilting their head back, pinching their nose shut, and giving breaths until help arrives. Until medical personnel arrive, the safest and most compassionate thing to do for someone who has experienced fentanyl overdose is to stay with them. Once they have arrived, follow their instructions.
More About Fentanyl
Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid that is often mixed with other drugs, sometimes without the individual knowing. Its high potency increases the risk of overdose significantly, which makes knowing how to use Narcan, even more critical than you may think. These days, professionals like police officers routinely carry fentanyl, and volunteer workers, like those who serve unhoused communities, may also have access to the drug for quick administration within those communities.
Call Hill Country Today for Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
At Hill Country, we know that the best defense against fentanyl overdose is getting treatment and breaking free of the addiction. When someone uses Narcan to save your life, we hope that it’s a wake-up call toward needing to make a big change. Let coming that close to death make you crave a better life. One that’s healthy and free. Contact our team today at 1.844.675.1628 to enroll in our fentanyl addiction treatment program or submit our online contact form.
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