Narcan Training / Narcan can Save Lives
This past week my husband and I went to a county sponsored Narcan training and information meeting. It was a great information gathering event. There was many different rehab centers, Parent support groups, recover resources and educational opportunities. It was great to be able to talk to well informed professionals and gather information.
There was a quick, as in about 20 minute presentation, that told us about opioids both natural and man made. We were shown a powerpoint that explained what these drugs do and how they affect our bodies.. Opioids effect the lower brain stem which controls breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. As opioids are taken regularly the brain increases its release of epinephrine and changes the natural level of what it can control.
Signs of Drug use include –
- Shortness of Breath
- Dry mouth
- Constricted (small) pupils
- Cycles of hyper alertness followed by suddenly nodding off
- Droopy Appearance, as if extremities are heavy
- Weight Loss
- Runny Nose not related to illness or medical condition
- Needle Track Marks on arm
- infections or abscesses at injection site
- For Woman, loss of menstrual cycle
- Cuts, Bruises or Scabs from skin picking
When someone starts to come off of the effects of opioids there are many physical signs. These are the early signs of withdraw.
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Muscle Aches
- Increased Tearing
- Insomnia
- Runny Nose
- Sweating
- Yawning
Late Symptoms of withdraw.
- Abdominal Cramping
- Diarrhea
- Dilated Pupils
- Goose Bumps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Opioid withdraw reactions are very uncomfortable but not Life-Threatening. Symptoms usually start within 12 hours of last heroin usage and within 30 hours of last methadone exposure.
Resources for free Narcan and online training –
