When we set about designing the DC Good Samaritan Overdose Prevention Act, one of the biggest focuses for our group was the availability and distribution of Naloxone (Narcan). Given in response to an opioid-related overdose ((i.e. oxycodone, codene, hydromorphone, morphine, heroin), naloxone can partially or complete reverse the opioid effects including respiratory depression (decreased breathing or no breathing at all), sedation, and hypotension (low-blood pressure), thus saving a life. Our group felt very strongly that this piece at least be considered in the legislation.
Naloxone is an effective and safe drug (FDA). Distribution of naloxone has been credited in both diminishing drug-related overdose and preventing excess death. Knowing these facts is one thing, but putting faces, names and stories to the benefits of naloxone is something else entirely.
This year, The Harm Reduction Coalition founded a Facebook group focusing on this specific issue. Within the Facebook page, The Harm Reduction Coalition (HRC) has posted multiple video accounts on the benefits of naloxone, highlighting its affects and granting first-person testimony to such an important issue. Per HRC: "I'm the Evidence" uses video advocacy to give a face and a voice to overdose stories happening all over the world. It provides an outlet for these stories as a way to mobilize the drug using community and harm reduction advocates around the promotion of naloxone availability and use."
Take a look when you have a moment at I Am the Evidence: Naloxone Works.
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