Naloxone is the standard treatment for opioid overdose as it is able to reverse the effects of overdose when administered and in March 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Narcan for over-the-counter sale. Consumers can now purchase Narcan, 4 milligram (mg) naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray for over-the-counter, non-prescription, use (1). The approval of naloxone nasal spray is intended to help increase access to the life-saving treatment as a means to combat the growing opioid epidemic. 

Opioid Overdose Crisis

Opioid addiction and abuse in the United States has become a pervasive epidemic. The leading cause of injury-related deaths in the United States is overdose and the majority of overdose deaths involve opioids. The FDA reports more than 101,750 fatal overdoses, that occurred between October 2021 and October 2022, were a result of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl (1). 

Naloxone trainings are critical in preventing fatal overdoses and helping to save lives. As naloxone becomes more widely available, it’s important for not only medical professionals, but also for the general public, to know how to properly administer naloxone in the event of an overdose emergency. Providing realistic simulation tools is an effective method to train and prepare for overdose emergencies. Learning to properly administer correct dosages in a non-life threatening environment allows people to feel confident and competent in real life emergencies. 

Opioid Overdose Training Kit 

The SimLabSolutions Emergency Opioid Training Kits from DiaMedical provides essential supplies needed for realistic training and practical simulation in the proper administration of naloxone. These training kits include SimRx simulated naloxone, an Intranasal Mucosal Atomizer Device (M.A.D.), non-latex gloves, and a CPR face shield, making training easier than ever. 

Final Thoughts

The opioid crisis is not something that only concerns medical professionals, it affects and concerns us all. It is imperative everyone knows how to properly administer naloxone and being prepared to treat an opioid overdose starts with proper training. DiaMedical is dedicated to providing instructors the tools to prepare future first responders with high-quality training. For more information on a particular product or to request a quote, please reach out to a DiaMedical expert at 877-593-6011 or info@diamedicalusa.com.

References

U.S. Food and Drug Administration, March 29, 2023, FDA Approves First Over-the-Counter Naloxone Nasal Spray, [Press release], https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-over-counter-naloxone-nasal-spray