Unfortunately, a drug
overdose is no longer a rare occurrence. It has become increasingly important
that citizens who may witness an opioid overdose – by friend, family or
stranger – be familiar with naloxone, a drug that can be administered without
medical training and save a life. Carrying a naloxone rescue kit is essential
if you or someone in your life suffers from opioid use disorder. Naloxone,
commonly known by its brand name Narcan, is a drug that can reverse the effects
of an opioid overdose. Naloxone only reverses the effects of an opioid
overdose. It is also important to
consider having a naloxone rescue kit if you or someone you know has been
prescribed opioids. Naloxone is available to anyone who needs it or would like
to carry it in order to be able to save a life.
Responding to an overdose…
Usually someone who has overdosed
looses consciousness and is unable to respond to stimulation. Other signs of an
overdose include: breathing that has stopped or that is very slow and shallow,
a slow or non-existent pulse, a noticeable change in skin color (purple/blue or
gray), choking or sounds that mimic gurgling, limp body and vomiting. Victims
who are overdosing may be awake, but unable to talk. If you suspect someone is
overdosing, call 911 and immediately administer naloxone.
The
Massachusetts Good Samaritan Law
encourages friends, family, or bystanders to assist people having an overdose
and to seek emergency medical assistance. The law has significant potential to
help reduce the impact of the opioid epidemic and save lives. The law protects
victims and those who call 9-1-1 for help from charge, prosecution, and
conviction for possession or use of controlled substances. The Law, Chapter
94C, Section 34A: “Immunity from prosecution under Secs. 34 or 35 for persons
seeking medical assistance for self or other experiencing a drug-related
overdose” can be found on the Massachusetts Legislature
General Laws website.
Prescribe to Prevent:
Compilation of resources and information about naloxone rescue kits to help
health care providers educate their patients to reduce overdose risk and
provide rescue kits for patients.
