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For National Overdose Awareness Day the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department has made the lifesaving drug Naloxone available for free. Naloxone, more commonly known as Narcan, is used in overdose cases in order to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Allowing a subject to begin breathing again.
“August 31st, is International Overdose Awareness Day. Recognizing those who go unseen, and honoring those whose lives have been altered by an overdose. They are our family and our friends, grieving the loss of a loved one.” – Christine Venegas, R.N. with the Harm Reduction Program, Western Upper Peninsula Health Department
Naloxone is easily used by anyone, and commonly found at pharmacies, with law enforcement departments, and health centered locations. Most often the life saving medication comes in a single dose push to administer nasal applicator.
“Narcan is available now, over the counter. You can go to a pharmacy and get Narcan, but it tends to be expensive. And through the state of Michigan, through our health department, it is offered free to community members” – Christine Venegas, R.N. with the Harm Reduction Program, Western Upper Peninsula Health Department
The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department will make Naloxone, or Narcan, available for free today. Those interested in learning more about addiction recovery, how to administer Naloxone, or are interested in beginning their road to recovery can find more information below.
The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department is located at 540 Depot Street in Hancock. Narcan is available at the local health department from 9am to 12, noon today.
Western Upper Peninsula Harm Reduction Program
