The Hazards and Benefits of Administering Narcan for Opioid Overdoses in Tucson and Southern Arizona

Opioid overdoses have become a critical issue in Tucson and Southern Arizona, with fentanyl being a significant contributor to the crisis. Narcan (naloxone) is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. This article explores the benefits and potential hazards of administering Narcan, with a focus on our local community.

Benefits of Administering Narcan

1. Life-Saving Potential: Narcan can quickly restore normal breathing in someone whose breathing has slowed or stopped due to an opioid overdose. This rapid action can prevent brain damage and death.
2. Mechanism of Action: Narcan works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, displacing the opioids that are causing respiratory depression. As a competitive antagonist, it effectively blocks the effects of opioids, allowing the individual to resume normal breathing¹.
3. Accessibility: Narcan is available as a nasal spray, making it easy for bystanders to administer without medical training. This accessibility is crucial in emergency situations where every second counts.
4. Safety: Administering Narcan to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose will not harm them. This makes it a safe intervention even if there is uncertainty about the cause of unconsciousness.
5. Community Impact: By carrying and knowing how to use Narcan, residents of Tucson and Southern Arizona can contribute to reducing the number of fatal overdoses in our community. This collective effort can save lives and provide a sense of empowerment and preparedness.

Hazards of Administering Narcan

1. Withdrawal Symptoms: Narcan can induce withdrawal symptoms in individuals who are dependent on opioids. These symptoms, while not life-threatening, can be uncomfortable and include nausea, vomiting, sweating, and agitation.
2. Temporary Solution: Narcan’s effects are temporary, and multiple doses may be needed, especially in cases involving potent opioids like fentanyl. It is crucial to call emergency services immediately after administering Narcan.
3. Risk of Violence: There is a likelihood of violence among individuals who receive Narcan due to pain, disorientation, and the abrupt removal of their high. This can pose a danger to the person administering Narcan and others nearby.
4. False Sense of Security: There is a risk that individuals may rely solely on Narcan as a safety net, potentially leading to riskier opioid use. Education on the importance of seeking medical help and addressing the root causes of opioid addiction is essential.

Direct Cause of Respiratory Depression from Opioids

Opioids cause respiratory depression by acting on the brainstem, which controls automatic breathing. Specifically, opioids bind to μ-opioid receptors in the preBötzinger complex, a critical area in the brainstem responsible for generating the rhythm of breathing². This binding inhibits the activity of neurons that drive respiration, leading to a decrease in the respiratory rate and depth of breaths. Additionally, opioids can affect other brainstem areas involved in respiratory control, such as the pontine Kölliker-Fuse and parabrachial nuclei². The overall effect is a reduced drive to breathe, which can be fatal if not promptly addressed.

Local Context: Tucson and Southern Arizona

In Tucson and Southern Arizona, the prevalence of fentanyl has exacerbated the opioid crisis. Local organizations and health departments have been working tirelessly to distribute Narcan and provide training on its use. R.E.D. Training Solutions offers Narcan training as part of its CPR classes, recognizing the critical need for this knowledge in our community.

Conclusion

Narcan is a powerful tool in the fight against opioid overdoses, offering significant benefits with manageable risks. By understanding how to use Narcan and recognizing its limitations, residents of Tucson and Southern Arizona can play a vital role in saving lives and combating the opioid crisis in our community.

Resources

• Pima County Health Department: Offers resources and training on Narcan administration.
• Sonoran Prevention Works: Provides harm reduction services and Narcan distribution.
• Arizona Department of Health Services: Information on opioid overdose prevention and treatment.

By staying informed and prepared, we can make a difference in our community and help those in need.