Why You Should Personally Carry Naloxone (Narcan): A Crucial Way to Save Lives in Oregon

By: Kaelyn Lawrence

Oregon has seen the highest increase of drug overdoses in the nation with a 41% increase in drug overdose deaths between September 2022 and September 2023. According to The Oregonian, over 500 state citizens passed away from fentanyl overdoses during that time. Fentanyl is particularly on the rise. As per a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2023 the State of Oregon experienced the highest annual increase in fentanyl-related deaths. Fentanyl has killed almost 12,000 more people since the CDC began its project in 2019, an increase of 1,526%. Fentanyl was the cause of 13% of overdose deaths four years ago. In 2023, those percentages increased to 72%.

The importance of carrying naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, is crucial to combatting this increase in overdoses related to opioids. This life-saving medication has the potential to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and prevent tragic fatalities. By having Narcan on hand, you have the power to intervene in an overdose situation and provide immediate assistance until medical help arrives. This simple act can mean the difference between life and death for someone experiencing an overdose.

Photo: Oregon Health Authority

What are opioids/what drugs will naxolone reverse?:

According to U.S Department of Health Services, opioids or opiates are defined as: “a class of drugs naturally found in the opium poppy plant. Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others.”

Because one pill can contain hundreds of doses of fentanyl, the rise in this drug is particularly worrisome. A dose alone could be lethal. The majority of other opioids that people purchase on the street have been replaced by fentanyl, and as a result, overdose rates have skyrocketed. 

Signs/Indications that someone is having an opioid overdose: 

• Limp body

• Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”

• Slow, shallow breathing

• Bluish lips and skin

• Falling asleep or loss of consciousness

• Choking or gurgling sounds

• Cool and clammy skin

How naxolone works in the body:

Naloxone, which is marketed under the name Narcan, is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids by attaching to the same brain receptors as these drugs. When given during an overdose, naloxone can rapidly reverse the respiratory depression brought on by opioids, restoring normal breathing and possibly saving the person's life. This drug takes action almost immediately, and has relatively no negative effects. 

How to administer naxolone/Narcan:

Naxolone/Narcan that you can get over the counter is given intranasally. 

If you suspect someone has had an opioid overdose:

1. Check responsiveness by yelling/tapping the person

2. If they don't respond, call 911 immediately. 

3. Give naloxone as quickly as possible, by giving one spray in either nostril. Do not wait for emergency workers to arrive before giving naloxone. 

4. Try to keep the person awake/breathing

5. Lay the person on their side to prevent choking. 

6. Remain with the individual until emergency personnel arrives.

7. Naloxone is a short-term remedy. In certain situations, more than one dose may be required. If the patient hasn't recovered after two minutes, administer a second dose through the opposite nostril.

How to get Naloxone / Narcan: 

Oregonians can get Naloxone at many participating retail pharmacies, like Walmart, Target, Fred Meyer Costco and more. It is around $45 for a two-count dose. You can also get it over the counter through your own pharmacy. Additionally, some community organizations and harm reduction programs often distribute Narcan for free or at a low cost.

Over the counter Narcan
Photo: AP News

Prescribed Naloxone
Photo: Harvard Health Publishing

Carrying Narcan is a compassionate and proactive step towards saving lives in your community. By being prepared to respond to an overdose, you are taking a stand against the devastating impact of opioid addiction and offering hope to those who may be struggling.

By arming yourself with this life-saving medication, you have the opportunity to be a hero in someone's darkest hour. Let us come together to promote awareness, education, and access to Narcan, ensuring that we are prepared to save lives and make a positive impact in the face of the opioid crisis. Keep Narcan in your car glove box, purse or backpack. Go get Narcan today!

Links to buy Narcan:

• Target
• Walmart
• Amazon

Other Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/naloxone/factsheets/pdf/naloxone_factsheet_family_and_caregivers_how_and_when_to_use_naloxone.pdf