It is a difficult moment to realize that fentanyl overdoses are on the rise in America. They pose a serious threat to individuals who use prescription opioids or illicit drugs. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that causes someone to stop breathing. This makes it a life-threatening situation. In cases of fentanyl overdose, Narcan, a life-saving medication, can make the difference between life and death.
What is Narcan, and how does it work?
Narcan is the brand name of the drug naloxone. It is an opioid antagonist that reverses an opioid overdose. This blocks the effects of an opioid in the brain, restoring normal breathing to someone who has stopped or slowed their breathing due to an overdose. This medication can be acquired in various forms of naloxone, which include a naloxone nasal spray and injectable versions and can be administered by anyone trained to use it.
Narcan counteracts the effects of opioids like fentanyl. As soon as it is administered, it quickly attaches to opioid receptors in the brain, pushing the opioid out and reversing its effects. This quick reversal is necessary due to the quick and fatal effects of fentanyl, which slows or stops breathing, leading to unconsciousness or death.
Why is Narcan important for fentanyl overdoses?
Because fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, making it stronger than many other opioids like heroin and morphine, overdoses are an extremely high risk. It is often mixed with illicit drugs, such as heroin, usually without the user’s knowledge, which increases the risk of overdosing. Narcan must be administered quickly because an overdose can occur.
Narcan is vital because it can reverse opioid overdoses even when they involve fentanyl. Though, in many cases, multiple doses of Narcan are needed to combat the potency of fentanyl, it is an essential tool in fighting the opioid crisis and saving lives.
What are the signs and symptoms of a fentanyl overdose?
Due to its prevalence, recognizing the signs of a fentanyl overdose is critical. The symptoms of fentanyl overdose may include:
- Slow breathing
- Stopped breathing
- Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
- Pinpoint pupils
- Blue or gray lips and fingertips
- Cold and clammy skin
These symptoms happen as a result of someone having stopped breathing. If this happens to someone, you must act quickly and call for immediate medical attention. Administering Narcan as soon as possible can help restore their breathing and prevent brain damage or death.
What are the side effects of Narcan?
There are side effects that come along with the administering of Narcan. However, this is the case for any medication. The important thing is that its benefits far outweigh the risks in overdose situations.
The side effects of Narcan include:
- Allergic reactions like itching or swelling
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache or dizziness
- Sweating
In rare cases, individuals may experience more serious side effects. If they have allergic reactions to naloxone, this will be the case. However, because they are only side effects and allergic reactions, they are less worrisome than brain damage or death.
How long does Narcan take to work?
Narcan works extremely quickly. It usually takes effect between two to three minutes after being administered. The life-threatening effects of fentanyl begin immediately and restore the user’s breathing and consciousness. Because of the strength of fentanyl, however, the initial dose of Narcan can expire, meaning that an additional dose will be required to ensure its effects.
Can Narcan be used more than once in a single overdose situation?
Yes. Narcan can be used more than once if it is needed. In fentanyl overdoses, it is not uncommon for more than one dose to be necessary because of the drug’s strength. Another dose will be required if, after the first one, the individual does not regain consciousness or begin breathing normally. Multiple doses must be carried out to secure its life-saving effects for the user. The use of synthetic opioids like fentanyl requires this.
What should you do if someone is experiencing a fentanyl overdose?
The following procedures must be kept in mind if you suspect someone is experiencing a fentanyl overdose:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Administer Narcan.
- If they do not respond to the first dose, administer a second dose after two to three minutes.
- Continue monitoring their breathing and stay with them until emergency services arrive.
Even after the overdose has been reversed, it is crucial to make sure the individual receives professional help. Narcan cannot be understood to be a substitute for medical care.
How can you obtain Narcan, and is it available over the counter?
Narcan is available in a couple of ways:
- It can be acquired by prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) in many states.
- Family members or friends of individuals dependent on opioids can obtain Narcan for emergency purposes.
Healthcare providers recommend keeping Narcan in the homes of individuals who use prescription opioids or have a history of opioid use. This life-saving medication is critical in the ongoing fight against opioid overdoses.
Drug Addiction Treatment at Fifth Avenue Psychiatry
Help is available at Fifth Avenue Psychiatry if you or a loved one is struggling with drug addiction. Seeking professional treatment is the best long-term solution in the fight against opioid dependency. At Fifth Avenue Psychiatry, we specialize in treating our clients with the utmost care, offering tailored treatment plans that address unique needs.
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