Naloxone saves lives
Naloxone quickly blocks the effects of opioid drugs like heroin, methadone, morphine, and fentanyl, giving someone vital time until emergency help arrives.
In 2024, more than 50 people died in North Staffordshire after taking drugs, with the mortality rate from drug poisoning being highest in Stoke-on-Trent.
At CDAS, we're working to change that by raising awareness of naloxone - a medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save a life.
Naloxone can be injected into a muscle or sprayed into the nose. It quickly blocks the effects of opioid drugs like heroin, methadone, morphine, and fentanyl, giving someone vital time until emergency help arrives.
What is naloxone?
Naloxone is a life-saving medicine that works by reversing the effects of opioids on the body. Opioids slow down breathing and heart rate, which can cause a person to lose consciousness or stop breathing completely.
It comes in two forms: an injectable kit or a nasal spray. Both are small, easy to carry, and designed for use in emergencies.
When naloxone is given, it kicks the opioids off the brain's receptors, helping the person breathe normally again. The effects start within two to three minutes and last for around 20-40 minutes, long enough for emergency services to arrive and provide further help.
Naloxone can be administered by anyone, and it won't cause harm if given to someone who hasn't taken opioids.
Frequently asked questions
Steve Griffiths, Prevention and Engagement Team Leader, explains:
“Naloxone temporarily reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, and this can be enough to save someone’s life.
“It’s really important that anyone carrying naloxone who is witnessing an opioid overdose feels confident using it. You should use it if you think that someone has overdosed, even if you’re not sure what they’ve taken—naloxone will not cause harm to a person who hasn’t used opioids.
"Anyone could come across someone who's overdosed" - Steve Griffiths, Prevention and Engagement Lead
“At CDAS, we offer naloxone training and kits to our clients and local partners, as we know that anyone could come across someone who’s overdosed. The more people who carry and know how to use naloxone, the more we can prevent people dying from overdoses."
A lived experience perspective
Jamie Phillips, Group Facilitator at CDAS, shares his story:
“I used opiates for 28 years. One day, I injected as usual, but because I had a lot of tablets in my system from the day before, I overdosed. All I remember is waking up in an ambulance.
“In 2017, I entered rehab with BAC O’Connor, and this is where my recovery journey began. I now work with CDAS to deliver group sessions to people who are at different stages of their drug and alcohol recovery journey. I use my lived experience to provide guidance, advice, and empowerment to our clients so that they can find solutions to the challenges in their lives.
“If I hadn’t been with someone who’d called an ambulance, I don’t know what would have happened to me. There are a number of things that people can do to reduce harm—having someone around you when taking drugs is one, but one of the most important things people can do is carry naloxone and know how to use it.”
Getting support
If you or someone you know is facing challenges with drugs or alcohol, we offer free and confidential help to anyone living in Stoke-on-Trent.
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