Opioid Reversal Medication

#NOTSCARYTOCARRY

Opioid reversal medication is a medication that can save lives by temporarily reversing an opioid overdose, such as heroin or fentanyl. Opioid reversal medication is safe to use and only works if a person has opioids in their body. You are protected under the Good Samaritan Law and cannot be arrested if you use opioid reversal medication.

The #notscarytocarry campaign was created by a network of community organizations titled the Prescription Opioid Solutions (PRxOS) workgroups. The aim is to spread awareness of what opioid reversal medication is, why it’s important, and to break down the stigma surrounding opioid reversal medication. It’s not scary to carry, and it can save someone’s life.

Thank you to everyone who submitted an application for Opioid Settlement Funds. Due to the overwhelming response of requests, we have closed the application for the remainder of this year. We anticipate re-opening the application cycle on January 1, 2024. 

Look for these signs of an opioid overdose.

Abnormal BreathingAbnormal Breathing

  • Slow/No Breathing
  • Gurgling or snoring

Can’t Be Woken UpCan’t Be Woken Up

  • Slow/No Breathing
  • Gurgling or snoring
  • Pinpoint Pupils

Skin ChangesSkin Changes

  • Cold/Clammy skin
  • Gray/Blue skin

WHAT DO I DO IF SOMEONE IS UNRESPONSIVE?

  1. Call 911 and give opioid reversal medication. If there is no reaction in 2 minutes, give a second dose.
  2. Give rescue breathing and/or chest compressions. Follow 911 dispatcher instructions.
  3. After giving medication, stay with the person until help arrives.

IDAHO LAW

In Idaho, the Good Samaritan Law protects you from arrest for helping anyone you think is having an overdose, even if you’re carrying controlled substances or drug paraphernalia. You should call 9-1-1 immediately for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) if someone isn’t responding or you think an overdose has happened. Every second counts.

ALWAYS CALL 911 FIRST

USE OPIOID REVERSAL MEDICATION IF IT IS AVAILABLE. IT’S SAFE TO USE, EVEN IF IT ISN’T AN OVERDOSE.

OPIOID EDUCATION AND OPIOID REVERSAL MEDICATION TRAINING

Opioid education and opioid reversal medication training is available from Panhandle Health District. The training is available for organizations, or any individuals in North Idaho. If you would like to schedule a training, please contact:

Makenna Hunziker
Health Education Specialist
mhunziker@phd1.idaho.gov
Phone: 208-415-5144

WHERE CAN I GET OPIOID REVERSAL MEDICATION

Most pharmacies in North Idaho have opioid reversal medication available, even it you don’t have a prescription. Most insurances will cover opioid reversal medication, including Medicare and Medicaid. The Opioid reversal medication Service Locator has all locations that currently carry opioid reversal medication.

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