Overdose Crisis and Narcan Response

I was recently contacted by Dr. Matthew Parker, MD – Medical Advisor at rehabnet.com – about some timely information regarding the ongoing overdose crisis. Fentanyl has certainly been prominent in the news in recent years, both with celebrity deaths, and many more in local communities. The following article outlines, not just the dangers we’re aware of, but many more subtle ones, and symptoms to watch for.

More importantly, there is valuable information regarding the emergency treatment of an overdose with Naloxone in a Narcan Kit. These are readily available in many communities at no cost (check with local health and emergency clinics), and easy to store in your vehicle, or carry in a bag. Learning how to use these kits effectively in an overdose emergency could save a life!

Recent drug fatalities involving Fentanyl have increased at greater levels in adolescents than adults, and social media apps play a role:

  • Accessibility via Apps: A 2024 analysis reveals that teenagers frequently use popular social media and messaging platforms to acquire counterfeit pills, increasing access to hazardous drugs.
  • Impact on Fatalities: The National Crime Prevention Council estimates that 80% of fentanyl poisoning deaths in teens and young adults are linked to social media platforms.

Fentanyl overdose symptoms can escalate rapidly due to the drug’s potency. Key warning signs to watch for include:

  • Slowed, shallow or stopped breathing
  • Extreme drowsiness or inability to stay awake
  • Cold, clammy skin
  • Blue or grayish tint to lips and fingernails
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Gurgling or choking sounds
  • Loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness
  • Limp body or inability to move

Opioid overdose recognition is critical. Treat any suspected overdose as a life-threatening emergency, even if you are unsure whether opioids like fentanyl are involved. Direct action is always preferred, at the very least, call 9-1-1.

Please read the full article here, paying particular attention to the section about what to do (and what not to do): https://rehabnet.com/fentanyl-crisis-narcan-overdose-prevention/

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