At least three Tennesseans die from an opioid-related overdose, every day. And even more are treated at emergency rooms for overdoses. The latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show Tennessee ranks No. 2 for overdose death rate in the country. In 2022, 3,826 Tennesseans died of a drug overdose most of which involved an opioid. While these statistics are alarming, an overdose reversal medication, Narcan, if administered correctly and timely can save a life. But what is it, who should have it and how is it used?
What Are Opioids?
Opioids are strong pain relievers and include: heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, and morphine. Taking opioids at a higher dose or more often than your doctor recommends can lead to overdose. It is also possible to overdose by taking opioids in combination with alcohol or other drugs such as those used to treat anxiety disorders or to help you sleep.
When too much of an opioid is taken, the body cannot process it and it can slow breathing to a dangerously low rate. When breathing slows too much, is shallow, erratic or stops, an overdose death can occur. Other symptoms of an overdose include slow, erratic or no pulse, choking or gurgling sounds, unconsciousness, unresponsiveness, vomiting or a pale clammy face.
Opioid overdose reversal medications are a proven tool against overdose death. The most common product is a medication called naloxone or the brand name product, Narcan. It can be given through a nasal spray, through an autoinjector or with a vial and syringe.
Narcan (Naloxone)
Narcan is a medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose. If someone has symptoms of an opioid overdose, but you’re not sure if they’ve taken opioids, you should still give them Narcan. Narcan won’t hurt a person who has overdosed on something other than opioids, and has no effect on someone who does not have opioids in their system.
Any time an overdose is suspected, call 911 immediately, stay with the person until first responders arrive and administer Narcan if available. Before giving someone Narcan, you should lie the person on their back, tilt their head back and support their neck with one of your hands. Remove Narcan nasal spray from its packaging and do the following:
- Holding the nasal spray in one hand, insert the tip of the nozzle gently into one of the person’s nostrils.
- Press the plunger firmly to give the full dose of Narcan and then remove it.
- Turn the person who has overdosed onto their side, Place one of their hands under their head and one knee bent forward to stop them from rolling onto their stomach. Lying in this position will prevent them from choking in case they vomit.
Who Should Carry Narcan?
People who should consider carrying Narcan or have it in their homes include:
- Those currently taking high doses of prescription opioids or are taking opioids along with alcohol and/or sedatives
- Those with a history of overdose or of opioid use disorder
- Those with active opioid use disorder
- Those who use drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines which can be contaminated with the powerful opioid fentanyl
- Anyone who knows or is commonly around anyone who falls into the above categories
People living and/or working in areas that see high rates of opioid overdose also should carry Narcan with them. If you have opioid prescriptions in your home, you should also keep Narcan on hand, in case someone such as a child accidentally ingests them.
In March 2023, the Food & Drug Administration approved Narcan spray for nonprescription use, allowing it to be sold as an over the counter (OTC) drug in convenience stores, grocery stores, gas stations and online. It is also possible to get it from community-based distribution programs, local public health groups, or local health departments, free of charge.
Tennessee was the 18th state to pass a “Good Samaritan” civil immunity law centered on naloxone. These laws protect people who overdose on opioids and the people who seek medical help for them. The protection is intended to reduce bystander hesitation to assist for fear of being sued or prosecuted for unintentional injury or wrongful death.
While training is not required to use Narcan it is highly recommended. The State of Tennessee website has a video and a PDF with training information demonstrating how to recognize the signs of an overdose and respond. Community programs such as Tennessee’s Regional Overdose Prevention Specialists (ROPS) provide free training to any Tennessean on recognizing and responding to an overdose. Located throughout the state, these programs act as a point of contact for training and education on opioid overdose and for overdose prevention through the distribution of naloxone. There are three programs in West Tennessee:
Jackson-Madison Prevention Coalition Website
Facebook
Jackson (731) 984-2163
Weakley County Prevention Coalition
Facebook
Martin (731) 819-7603
Memphis Area Prevention Coalition
Facebook
Memphis (901) 249-2828
Narcan is NOT a substitute for medical treatment. Anyone who receives Narcan should be seen by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. West Tennessee Healthcare has medical professionals who can answer your questions about Narcan and provide support. To find one near you, click here.
