Narcan, also known as naloxone, is a medication used to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, blocking their effects and rapidly reversing the respiratory depression that can occur during an overdose.
When someone experiences an opioid overdose, the opioids bind to the opioid receptors in the brain and other organs, which can slow down or stop breathing. Narcan is like a schoolyard bully who likes to pick on opiates. When administered, binds to those same receptors and effectively “kicks out” the opioids, restoring normal breathing and potentially saving the person’s life. This is a bully we actually want to have around!
Narcan can be administered through injection, nasal spray, or auto-injector. The nasal spray works very fast and is the most common method available to the general public, often passed out freely at pharmacies and clinics, espeically in San Francisco. In the city, about 6 people per day die from opioids, so having Narcan on-hand can easily make the difference between life and death.
Here are two resources for learning more about Narcan and where and how you can get some to keep on hand:
- San Francisco’s 2022 Overdose Prevention Plan and access resources
- NEXT Distro California Narcan info and access
It is important to note that while Narcan can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, it is not a substitute for medical care and anyone who has experienced an overdose should seek medical attention immediately.