Understanding Narcan
Narcan, or naloxone, is a critical tool in the fight against opioid overdoses. As an opioid antagonist, Narcan rapidly reverses the effects of opioid drugs, restoring normal breathing in individuals who have overdosed. With the ongoing opioid crisis, understanding how to use Narcan and its availability is essential for saving lives.
How to Use Narcan
Administering Narcan is straightforward, making it accessible for anyone to use during an emergency. Here are the basic steps:
- Identify Overdose Symptoms: Look for signs such as unconsciousness, slow or no breathing, blue or purple lips/fingernails, and unresponsiveness.
- Call Emergency Services: Dial 911 immediately to get professional medical assistance.
- Administer Narcan:
- Intranasal Spray: Insert the nozzle into one nostril and press the plunger to release the medication.
- Injectable: Inject into the outer thigh muscle.
- Monitor the Individual: If there’s no response after 2-3 minutes, a second dose may be administered.
- Perform Rescue Breathing or CPR: If necessary, until emergency services arrive.
The Impact of Narcan
Narcan has been instrumental in reducing opioid-related fatalities. By providing an immediate response to overdoses, it gives individuals a second chance at life and an opportunity to seek treatment. Communities with access to Narcan have seen a significant decline in opioid overdose deaths.
JADE Wellness Center’s New Narcan Vending Machine
To further support the community, Allegheny County Health Department has partnered with JADE Wellness Center to introduce a free Narcan vending machine at our Southside location, 809 Bingham St., Pittsburgh, PA. Available 24/7/365, this vending machine ensures that Narcan is accessible to anyone in need, at any time. This initiative is part of our commitment to harm reduction and saving lives.
Why a Vending Machine?
The Narcan vending machine addresses several critical needs:
- Immediate Access: Opioid overdoses can happen at any time, and having Narcan readily available around the clock can be the difference between life and death.
- Anonymity: Individuals can obtain Narcan without the stigma or fear of judgment that sometimes comes with asking for help.
- Community Empowerment: By making Narcan easily accessible, we empower community members to act swiftly in emergencies, potentially saving numerous lives.
Conclusion
At JADE Wellness Center, we are dedicated to breaking down barriers and providing essential resources for addiction recovery and overdose prevention. Our new Narcan vending machine is a testament to our commitment to the community and our ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis. We encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with how to use Narcan and to take advantage of the free access provided by our vending machine.
For more information or assistance, please contact our Southside location at 412.380.0100 ext. 4 or visit us online at www.myjadewellness.com. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.
