The rise of opioid-related overdoses has caused an increase in sudden cardiac arrest sparked by respiratory failure. Research shows that opioids kill more than 130 Americans daily, with the national overdose rate skyrocketing 74 percent between 2000 and 2019.
The drug naloxone, commonly called Narcan, has emerged as a live-saver, capable of restoring normal breathing in minutes.
Let’s explore how to use Narcan during an opioid overdose emergency, and touch upon its effectiveness after its expiration date or its exposure to temperature fluctuation.
Understanding Opioid Overdoses
Opioids, such as prescription painkillers and illegal drugs like heroin, weaken the central nervous system, which slows breathing and lowers the heart rate. That can lead to oxygen deprivation that triggers cardiac arrest.
Here are some key signs an individual is experiencing an opioid overdose:
● Shallow or no breathing
● Blue lips or pale skin
● Unresponsiveness
● Narrowed pupils
Immediate intervention with Narcan can help to avert death or further injury.
What is Narcan?
Narcan can reverse overdose effects by inhibiting opioid receptors in the brain.
There are two main forms through which it can be administered:
● Nasal spray: effective for non-medical responders to use
● Injectable solution: mostly used by medical professionals
Narcan is widely available without a prescription and is a staple in overdose response kits.
How do I use Narcan in an emergency?
- Notice symptoms: Confirm signs such as shallow breathing or limited response
- Call 911
- Administer Narcan:
a. Nasal spray: Place it inside a nostril and press the plunger.
- Injection solution: Follow instructions provided for dosage.
- CPR or rescue breathing: Make sure there is a steady oxygen flow to the individual while the drug takes effect.
- Repeat: If needed, administer a second dose after a few minutes.
Am I legally protected when using Narcan?
The Third Party Naloxone Law provides legal protection, including from criminal protection, for non-healthcare providers who administer the drug if acting in good faith on a person believed to be experiencing an opioid overdose. A 2020 amendment to the law extends protection to individuals administering expired Narcan.
Can I use Narcan past its expiration date?
Research shows Narcan may retain 90 percent of its potency after 30 years of storage.
● Degradation of Narcan is extremely slow.
● Older Narcan mostly still meets pharmaceutical standards
The studies demonstrate that expired naloxone can be safe to use in emergencies where there are no alternatives. They also highlight how it’s better not to throw away expired Narcan until a sufficient quantity of replacements is accessible.
Does extreme temperature affect Narcan?
· Studies show that Narcan remains stable after temporary exposure to heat up to up to 176 degrees Fahrenheit (80 Celsius), or freeze-thaw cycles over a month.
· Narcan remains useful even outside optimal storage 59-79 degrees Fahrenheit (15-25 Celsius).
· If visible particles form in ampoules (the small-sealed vials used to contain or preserve the drug), replace them. However, usage should still be prioritized in emergencies.
The Final Word
Narcan is a vital tool in combatting the impact of opioid overdose. Good Samaritan laws protect most individuals who administer Narcan to help a person in an apparent overdose.
By carrying Narcan, learning administration procedures, and advocating for its usage, communities can be better equipped to prevent death from opioid-induced cardiac arrest.
At Starting Hearts, we can provide you with specific training that can make a life-saving difference.
Contact us for more information: info@startinghearts.org.
Sajjad Reyaz is a writer for the MedReport Foundation.
