The UNL report says only 20% of Nebraskas know about Narcan
HASTINGS, Neb. (Nebraska) – Less than half of the state’s population is aware of a product that prevents overdoses. That’s according to a study conducted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, which shows that only 10% to 20% of Nebraskas are aware of Naloxone, also known as Narcan.
The nasal spray is designed to open an individual’s airways for breathing. Narcan is an opioid antagonist. This means that it attaches itself to opioid receptors, which then block and reverse the opioid’s effect. Some officials said the lack of knowledge stems from a way of thinking.
“I think the reason there isn’t a lot of knowledge about it is because, overdose and addiction, use is highly stigmatized,” said Leeann Miley-Schultz, project director at ASAAP.
Schultz said Narcan’s ties to the treatment of excesses lead people to stigmatize him. But it’s important to know that one dose can mean the difference between life and death.
“If you administer Narcan and there are no opioids in their system, it won’t do anything to them; he won’t hurt them,” Schultz said. “Then being able to feel more comfortable knowing that you won’t be in pain, causing them more pain or getting into trouble. It’s actually saving lives.
Despite the negative cogitation, Schultz keeps one with him in case he ever becomes someone’s hero.
“I keep Narcan because outside of my job working with substance abuse is because it saves a life and gives them a chance to go get help, that’s why I carry Narcan,” Schultz said.
He said, the common misconception is that Narcan should treat opioid use. It is designed to help an individual recover and recover. Schultz is also on the mend and has seen people who own Narcan being treated differently.
“Narcan is not designed to treat opioid use disorder,” Schultz said. “It’s designed to help someone get over an overdose. So that then that person can go to be treated. They can go to a recovery center for help.”
Schultz said, Narcan is designed to save a life and lead a person to seek the help they need.
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