Wednesday, August 31 is National Overdose Day. Nearly 2,600 people in the state of Michigan died from drug overdose in 2018, and 2022 data from the CDC shows that the opioid epidemic was worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Opioids are prescribed to provide pain relief. In addition to pain relief, opioids cause a range of other effects including a feeling of well-being or reward. They also produce side effects such as shallow breathing, weak pulse, and low blood pressure. These side effects can be life threatening and can start as quickly as 5 to 10 minutes after taking the opioid.

People at risk from overdose include those that are prescribed high doses of an opioid, who consume multiple medications (prescribed or not) or alcohol, or have a history of substance misuse or other health conditions such as asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, kidney disease or dementia. Signs that a person is having an opioid overdose include faint heartbeat/shallow breathing, unconsciousness, limp legs and arms, tiny pupils, and blue/purple lips and fingernails. If you suspect a person is having an overdose, Naloxone can be administered.

Naloxone is a medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. It attaches to the opioid receptors in the brain to block the effects of opioids. Naloxone can restore normal breathing to a person if their breathing has stopped or slowed due to an opioid overdose. It has no effect on a person with no opioids in their system and will not harm someone if administered by mistake.

Naloxone or nasal Narcan is available free of charge, distributed through a vending machine at the Delta County Sheriff’s Department: 2800 College Avenue Escanaba, MI 49829. The Narcan vending machine was brought here in partnership through Wayne State Center of Behavioral Health and Justice, Delta County Sheriff’s Department and Public Health, Delta & Menominee Counties.

You can pick up Nasal Narcan at the Delta County Sheriff’s Department at any time. Public Health Delta & Menominee Counties also distributes nasal Narcan and can offer trainings on how to administer it. Contact (906)786-4111 for more information.