11 These results suggest that the FDA-approved forms are preferable over non-FDA-approved forms. Study findings released in March 2019 suggests that the FDA-approved naloxone devices produce substantially higher blood levels of naloxone than improvised nasal devices. Naloxone comes in two FDA-approved forms: injectable and prepackaged nasal spray. 10 Is there a Preferable Delivery System?Īll systems used by first responders deliver the stated dose of naloxone and can be highly effective in reversing an opioid overdose. Naloxone should be given to any person who shows signs of an opioid overdose or when an overdose is suspected. 8, 9 Naloxone works if a person has opioids in their system and has no harmful effect if opioids are absent. 6, 7 The risk that someone overdosing on opioids will have a serious adverse reaction to naloxone is far less than their risk of dying from overdose. 5 Administering naloxone in cases of opioid overdose can cause withdrawal symptoms when the person is dependent on opioids this is uncomfortable without being life threatening. There is no evidence of significant adverse reactions to naloxone. It can be administered by injection or through a nasal spray. Giving naloxone rapidly reverses the effects of opioid drugs, restoring normal respiration. Naloxone is an opioid receptor antagonist meaning it binds to opioid receptors and reverses or blocks the effects of other opioids. Statistical modeling suggests that high rates of naloxone distribution among laypersons and emergency personnel could avert 21 percent of opioid overdose deaths, and the majority of overdose death reduction would result from increased distribution to laypersons.A large-scale national study showed that opioid overdose deaths decreased by 14 percent in states after they enacted naloxone access laws.A naloxone distribution program in Massachusetts reduced opioid overdose deaths, without increasing opioid use, by an estimated 11 percent in the nineteen communities that implemented the program. Naloxone distribution programs give naloxone kits to opioid users, their friends and families, and others who may find themselves in a position to save the life of someone at risk of an opioid overdose. Unfortunately, by the time a person having an overdose is reached, it is often too late.įriends, family, and other bystanders can save lives with naloxone. 1 Naloxone is a safe medication that is widely used by emergency medical personnel and other first responders to prevent opioid overdose deaths. In 2017, over 47,600 people died from an overdose on opioid drugs, including prescription pain relievers, heroin, and fentanyl. Naloxone can quickly restore normal breathing and save the life of a person who is overdosing on opioids.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |