PA sees success in opioid overdose prevention programs

The overdose-reversal drug Narcan is displayed during training for employees of the Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), Dec. 4, 2018, in Philadelphia. The death of a Connecticut seventh grader from an apparent fentanyl overdose has renewed calls for schools to carry the opioid antidote naloxone. The 13-year-old student in Hartford died Saturday after falling ill in school two days earlier. The school did not have naloxone, which is known by the brand name Narcan. But now city officials are vowing to put it in all schools. Fatal overdoses among young people in the U.S. have been increasing amid the opioid epidemic but remain relatively uncommon. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, file)

by: Corey Morris

Posted: Mar 3, 2023 / 12:12 PM EST

Updated: Mar 3, 2023 / 12:12 PM EST

(WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com) — The commonwealth is touting its success in opioid overdose reversals thanks to the naloxone program.

According to a news release from Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration, nearly 23,000 opioid overdoses were reversed using the medication that has been made available through Pennsylvania programs since 2017.

“Anyone can save a life by administering naloxone to a person who is experiencing an opioid overdose,” said Acting Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen. “I encourage Pennsylvanians to obtain naloxone from a pharmacy, community give away event, or other sources – and learn how to give it. You never know when you could save the life of a stranger, neighbor, friend or family member.”

Naloxone rapidly reverses opioid overdoes by restoring breathing abilities to a person whose breathing has slowed or stopped. It can be administered with or without medical training, however free training is available online. By completing training, people who administer naloxone will be protected as Good Samaritans.

Through a standing order by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, residents can buy or use their insurance to get naloxone at local pharmacies without a prescription. It also can be received for free by mail through a commonwealth partnership with Prevention Point Pittsburgh and NEXT Distro.