What is
Nalaxone?
Naloxone is an injectable medication that can reverse respiratory system depression caused by opiate overdose, so the person can breathe normally and regain consciousness. Naloxone does not work for overdoses such as cocaine, ecstasy, GHB or alcohol. However, if an overdose involves multiple substances including opioids, naloxone will help by temporarily taking the opioid out of the equation. Naloxone is also known by the trade name Narcan®.
Take Home Kits
Most pain medications are opiate or opiate derivatives. Opiates can cause severe, and sometimes fatal, depression of the respiratory system when taken in large doses, when mixed with other depressants or when a user’s usual tolerance has been compromised. Knowing how to respond to an opiate overdose, whether for prescription or illicit drugs, can save a life.
Take Home Naloxone (THN) programs provide naloxone to people who use opioids (legally prescribed or illegally obtained) and are at risk of an overdose.
It is not intended to replace emergency care or minimize the importance of calling 911. But because 85% of overdoses happen within the company of others, having Naloxone offers the opportunity to save a life and reduce harms related to the overdose while waiting for the paramedics to arrive.
