All opioid medications can lead to addiction, especially when misused; however, fentanyl is one of the most concerning opioids today. This powerful opioid is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. What makes it even more dangerous is that many people do not realize they are consuming the drug. It is often used to cut other street drugs for the sake of profitability and has been responsible for many cases of overdose. If you or a loved one uses prescription or illicit opioid drugs, take the time to learn about the life-saving medication Narcan and how to prepare for the possibility of an overdose.
Get the help you need to quit opioids with the support you need. Call My 5 Palms at 1.844.675.1022 to enroll in our fentanyl rehab program and experience the benefits of our whole-person approach to recovery.
What Is Narcan?
Narcan is a brand name of the prescription drug naloxone. Its ability to quickly reverse an opioid overdose makes it a critical resource for anyone with an opioid use disorder (OUD) or anyone who knows of or works with individuals who may have OUD. Narcan is what is known as an opioid antagonist, meaning it attaches to opioid receptors in the brain and reverses and blocks the effects of other opioids.
Naloxone is available in two forms: a nasal spray and an injectable liquid. If delivered via injection, you would inject the liquid directly into a muscle, into a vein, or under the skin. The nasal spray tends to be easier for those without medical experience—you simply spray the medication into the nostril of someone who has overdosed, while they are lying on their back.
Who Can Access Narcan?
Many first responders like police officers, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and firefighters are trained in the use of Narcan. They may even carry the substance on them while on duty so they can assist a person overdosing without delay. However, some states allow anyone to access the drug from a pharmacist, even without a prescription, so they can potentially save the life of someone at risk of an opioid overdose.
Life After Narcan: What to Do After an Opioid Overdose
Something to keep in mind when using Narcan is that the medication is not a cure. It can save an individual’s life, but it is not a treatment in itself. The opioid-reversing effects of Narcan typically last between 30 and 90 minutes. You should also call 911 and wait for emergency help to arrive. Additionally, always encourage the person to seek professional addiction treatment to prevent a future opioid overdose.
Other Fentanyl Side Effects
Experiencing an overdose is not the only risk of using fentanyl. Other potential fentanyl side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Slowed breathing
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Skin rash
If you or someone you know experiences the above side effects after taking fentanyl or a drug that could contain fentanyl, be mindful of the risk of fatal overdose and be proactive by carrying Narcan at all times.
Be on the lookout for signs of an opioid overdose, including loss of consciousness, lack of responsiveness, constricted pupils, and slowed or stopped breathing, and administer Narcan immediately.
Start Fentanyl Rehab Today at My 5 Palms
Opioid addiction can be deadly, but you can protect yourself and your loved ones by contacting My 5 Palms for help. Our inpatient and outpatient treatment programs offer a comprehensive regimen of behavioral and holistic therapies along with expert assistance to help minimize cravings and withdrawal discomfort. To learn more about how our fentanyl rehab program works, fill out our online form or give us a call at 1.844.675.1022.
