Opioid Overdose Prevention

In 2021, over 5,800 people died in NYS due to overdosing on opioids, and this number has rapidly been increasing.

What is Narcan/Naloxone?

Narcan is a brand name for the medication naloxone. Naloxone is an emergency medication used to reverse an opioid overdose. It works by removing opioids  from receptors in the brain and protecting them. Naloxone is only effective for opioid overdoses, but it will FDA Approves First Over-the-Counter Naloxone Nasal Spray | Citygate Networknot cause harm if given to someone who has not taken opioids.

What is an Opioid Overdose?

Opioids are medications that are prescribed by a licensed medical provider to relieve pain. They can either be made naturally or in a lab, with fentanyl being the most common. Opioids can also be made illegally and sold; these are especially dangerous as they may have unknown substances in them. When too much of any opioid is taken, it can cause an overdose where the person can pass out, stop breathing, and even die. Signs to look out for are confusion, pale or blue lips/fingers, pinpoint (small) pupils, slow or stopped breathing/heartbeat, and unconsciousness.

What to Do

If you suspect a person is suffering an opioid overdose:

  1. Call 911 – callers are protected by New York State’s 911 Good Samaritan Law.
  2. Obtain a Narcan/naloxone kit if available and deliver the medication into the person’s nose. A second dose can be given after 2-5 minutes in the opposite nostril.
  3. Provide CPR or rescue breaths if trained and appropriate.
  4. Stay with the person until first responders arrive.

How to Be Prepared

Want to get trained and get a free kit of your own?
Contact Public Health Emergency Preparedness at 716-439-7431 to arrange a brief training or schedule one for a larger group.

Interested in hosting a naloxone training at your agency/organization? 

Please complete our Niagara County DOH Training Request Form. 

Where to Get Naloxone

Visit the Niagara County Department of Health Naloxone (Narcan) and Harm Reduction Resource Page

Or, the Harm Reduction OPEN (Overdose Prevention, Education, & Narcan) Stands (hosted by the Erie County Department of Health)


Resources

https://www.wellniagara.niagaracounty.com/narcan


https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/aids/general/opioid_overdose_prevention/good_samaritan_law.htm