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Mayor Dory trained in use of naloxone
With a number of drug overdose saves on record in Putnam County through the use of naloxone, a group of concerned citizens is now aiming at getting Narcan in every home and business in Putnam County.
The nasal spray naloxone, which goes by the brand name Narcan, can reverse the effects of an overdose from opioids such as heroin, fentanyl and prescription medicines. It can be administered by anyone, regardless of medical training, and it does not cause harm if administered when an opioid is not the cause of the emergency.
“It’s not just for those addicted to drugs,” local recover advocate Sheila Holloway said. “It could be for an elderly person that forgets she already took her pain meds and takes them again, it could be for a child that finds a pill on the floor and eats it or maybe a dog that eats a pill off the floor.”
Holloway is not alone in her quest.
“This is like a fire extinguisher,” Greencastle Police Capt. Charles Inman said. “It needs to be in everyone’s home and possession.”
Volunteers recently trained 43 DePauw students on the use of Narcan.
Meanwhile, Inman trained Greencastle Mayor Bill Dory on Saturday at the Community Connect event at the Putnam County Fairgrounds, with Dory noting his desire to help get the word about Narcan being essential to the community.
Individuals concerned that someone is experiencing a drug overdose should immediately call 911, administer naloxone and stay on scene until law enforcement or emergency medical services arrive. Good Samaritan laws in Indiana protect individuals concerned that they or an overdose victim will be prosecuted for drug violations when a suspected overdose is reported to authorities.
For those who need help or referral to treatment, send zip codes via text message to 435748 (HELP4U) to find help nearby.
To find other places to access naloxone, visit www.OverdoseLifeline.org.