Symetria believes an important aspect of opioid use treatment is that of harm reduction. The idea behind harm reduction is to acknowledge the existence of opioid use and focus on reducing the harm associated with its use by keeping the individual alive so that treatment can continue. In this story from CBS News, one Dallas neighborhood is confronting the opioid overdose crisis with the press of a button. Harm reduction advocates are refurbishing unused vending machines to dispense naloxone (also known as the brand name Narcan®) in high-need areas. And keep your quarters – these naloxone vending machines are free!
So, what is naloxone?
Naloxone is an FDA approved, life-saving medication used to reverse an overdose of opioids including fentanyl, heroin, and prescription opioid medications. Naloxone is available as an injectable, auto-injector, or in nasal-spray form. Naloxone, which is available without a prescription, can be purchased from many online and retail locations and can be used by paramedics, law enforcement, healthcare providers, schools, and the public.
Is naloxone safe?
Naloxone is safe, easy to use, works almost immediately, and is not habit-forming. Naloxone has very few negative effects and has no effect if opioids are not present in a person’s system. It is safe to give to people of all ages including children who may have unintentionally taken an opioid. Since naloxone stops the effects of opioids, the individual may experience withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, agitation, and sweating. Other side effects include nasal burning, dryness, or sneezing or injection site reactions from injectable naloxone. It is always recommended 911 be called following a suspected overdose, even if naloxone was administered.
Symetria provides free naloxone to all patients and instructions on how to use naloxone are available for families and caregivers. Take a look at this CBS News story on Dallas’ harm-reducing vending machines here: https://youtu.be/0jX5-dPZ19Q?si=_H9Q0YxXvE4WIa7a