In 2015, an estimated 264 people in Erie County suffered a fatal opioid overdose. This number would be much higher were it not for the efforts of first responders in their training and use of Naloxone, popularly known by its brand name, NARCAN. NARCAN is a nasal spray opioid antidote. It reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. Early administration of NARCAN after a person overdoses can be critical in saving that person's life.
Access to Naloxone is not limited to first responders. Given the breadth of the opioid epidemic, the Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) is seeking to provide NARCAN to anyone who would like it, no questions asked. Having NARCAN available and being trained in its use is a way that ordinary citizens can take meaningful action to help stop the opioid epidemic.
At community Naloxone trainings, you can receive two doses of NARCAN, courtesy of the ECDOH, as well as a training certificate, often required by employers who ask that their employees be trained in its use. Naloxone is also commercially available in pharmacies across New York State.
In order to increase community access to Naloxone, the ECDOH conducts regular trainings throughout Erie County that are free and open to the public. The coalition is proud to support these trainings; you can register for an upcoming training here.
