NALOXONE Presented by The RASE Project

Scope Of The Problem Opiate overdose is a major public health problem in the United States. Overdoses have increased to almost 17,000 deaths a year.

Overdose deaths are the leading cause of accidental death in PA. Higher than vehicle accidents

PA ranks 14 th highest in overdose deaths in the United States

20.4 million Americans age 12 and older were opiate users in 2014.

What is Act 139?  Senate Bill 1164 was signed into law by Governor Tom Corbett as ACT 139 in September of  This bill allows first responders to administer naloxone to individuals experiencing an opioid overdose. This law allows individuals such as family or friends to obtain a prescription for naloxone.  Protects immunity for prosecution for those responding and reporting overdoses.

What are Opioids?  Heroin, morphine, oxycodone, methadone, hydrocodone, codeine, and other prescription medications.

What is Naloxone (Narcan)?  It is a prescription medicine that reverses an opioid overdose. It cannot be used to get high and is NOT addictive.  It blocks the effects of opioids on the brain and restores breathing within two to eight minutes.

Can Naloxone Harm Someone?  No. If you suspect an opioid overdose, it is safe to give Naloxone. Naloxone will put someone who has overdosed into withdrawal only. Naloxone doe NOT prevent deaths cause by other drugs such as benzodiazepines, bath salts, cocaine, methamphetamines or alcohol.

Essential Steps for First Responders  1. CALL 911

Check for Signs of an Overdose  Extreme sleepiness and inability to awaken verbally or upon sternal rub  Breathing problems  Fingernails or lips turning blue  Extremely small “pinpoint” pupils  Slow heartbeat and/or low blood pressure

Support The Person’s Breathing  Be sure the person’s airway is clear.  Place one hand on the person’s chin, tilt the head back and pinch the nose closed.  Place your mouth over the person’s mouth to make a seal and give 2 slow breaths.  The person’s chest should rise (but not the stomach).  Follow up with one breath every 5 seconds.

Administer Naloxone  The duration of the effect of Naloxone is minutes.  More than one dose may be needed.

 Members of the community, family members, friends, and bystanders may be prescribed naloxone and can lawfully administer the drug to someone who is experiencing an overdose. Although not necessary to receive a prescription for naloxone, we recommend training.  Please visit to access an available training.

What is the Good Samaritan Provision?  Through the ‘Good Samaritan’ provision of Act 139, friends and loved ones are encouraged to summon emergency medical services by calling 911 in the event they witness an overdose. The law is meant to quell the fear of arrest in calling authorities for an overdose event by offering certain criminal and civil protections for those that do. Law enforcement entities in other states that have implemented Good Samaritan protections for those who dial 911 in good faith have reported significant improvements in community relations.

What happens next?  Survivors of opioid overdose have experienced a life- changing and traumatic event. They have had to deal with the emotional consequences of overdosing, which can involve embarrassment, guilt, anger, and gratitude, all accompanied by the discomfort of opioid withdrawal. Most need the support of family and friends to take the next steps toward recovery.

 Moreover, the individual who has experienced an overdose is not the only one who has endured a traumatic event. Family members often feel judged or inadequate because they could not prevent the overdose. It is important for families to work together to help the overdose survivor obtain the help that he or she needs.

The Road to Recovery has been described as an enlightening journey, from where one once was to where one is today.