91ÒùĸÊÓƵ

The number of overdose deaths involving opioids such as fentanyl have increased significantly in 91ÒùĸÊÓƵ in recent years. Fentanyl is 20–40 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It is odorless and tasteless, meaning that it can be ingested without the user's knowledge. Fentanyl can be laced in other drugs without a seller or buyer knowing.

Overdose prevention

• Do not use alone. If you do, arrange for someone you trust to check on you, or utilize 91ÒùĸÊÓƵ’s Digital Overdose Response System (DORS). The DORS app allows 91ÒùĸÊÓƵns using opioids or other substances to summon emergency response to their location if they become unconscious. .
• Do not mix substances. The risk of overdose increases if fentanyl is used with other substances such as alcohol, sedatives and other opioids like heroin.
• Know the signs and symptoms of an overdose before you start using. Symptoms can include chest pain, headaches, seizures, difficulty breathing, delirium, agitation or anxiety. Call 911 if you need help.
• Carry Naloxone and learn how to use it

The best way to avoid the dangers of opioids like fentanyl is to abstain from all illicit drugs. There is no risk-free way to consume illicit drugs. Life threatening effects can occur within 2 minutes of use.

How to spot an overdose

Call 911 if one or more signs are present.

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How to respond to a suspected overdose:

• Stay and help. You can help save a life
• Call 911
• Administer naloxone, if you have it
• Know that the protects you from simple drug possession charges

Naloxone

Naloxone is a fast-acting medication used to temporarily reverse the effects of opioid overdoses. Naloxone can begin to take effect within 2 minutes. If a response to an initial dose is not seen within 2-3 minutes, subsequent doses can safely be given. Naloxone is not a substitute for emergency medical support. Always call 911 when administering naloxone.

Where is naloxone available in residence?

• Naloxone nasal spray kits are available in residence AED (automated external defibrillator) cabinets. View AED + naloxone locations in residence.
• RAs on shift and Protective Services officers carry naloxone kits.
• Naloxone injectable kits are available at the University Health Centre Pharmacy and other . These kits are available for anyone to pick-up, and are free of charge. You do NOT need to present a health card, ID or prescription.
• Attend a group naloxone training on campus or in residence and receive a free kit at the training.

What does naloxone look like?

Narcan within its blister package (Photo credit: NEXT distro/Unsplash)

How do I administer naloxone?

Administering naloxone when it is not needed will not cause harm. Always administer if overdose is suspected, and always call for help.

Follow these instructions for administering nasal spray, or .

• Tilt the person’s head back and provide support under the neck with your hand
• Gently insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril, until your fingers on either side of the nozzle are against the bottom of the person’s nose
• PRESS the plunger firmly to give the dose of NARCAN^® Nasal Spray
• Remove the NARCAN^® Nasal Spray from the nostril after giving the dose
• Naloxone will take 2–5 min to kick in
• Continue rescue breathing for another two minutes, if no change or person is still not responsive, give an additional dose of NARCAN^® Nasal Spray using a new applicator in the alternate nostril
• Continue rescue breathing after the 2^nd and 3^rd doses as needed, until person begins to breathe on their own or help arrives
• If the individual starts to breathe on their own, place in the recovery position