Naloxone can be defined a drug that stops the functioning of opiate receptors in the nervous system. Commonly used in treating drug over dosage, naloxone is seen as a ‘miraculous drug’ due to the positive effects it has on stabilising breathing and blood pressure. This medication is a vital tool in the fight against opioid overdoses and has a significant impact on addiction treatment.
Naloxone, also known by its brand name Narcan, is an opioid antagonist, which means it can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids attach to, blocking the drugs from taking effect. By doing so, Naloxone can quickly restore normal breathing and prevent fatal consequences. Available as Narcan, naloxone can be administered via intramuscular (IM) or subcutaneous injection, nasal spray or intravenous infusion. IM injections, often found in “kits,” allow for quick and accessible overdose treatment by individuals with minimal training.
These kits, which include necessary supplies for treating overdoses, are frequently used by both emergency personnel and in community settings, playing a important role in harm reduction efforts. When administered IM, naloxone acts within three to five minutes and is generally safe with few side effects. In individuals not under opioid influence, naloxone has no noticeable effects. However, in those using opioids or experiencing an overdose, it rapidly reverses the opioid effects and can induce immediate withdrawal symptoms like nausea, vomiting and sweating. While these withdrawal symptoms are uncomfortable, they are not life-threatening making naloxone a safe intervention for suspected opioid overdoses. Due to its short action duration, ongoing monitoring and possibly repeated doses are necessary.
Naloxone, developed in the early 1960s by Jack Fishman at the Sloan–Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, was originally synthesized as a solution to reduce constipation associated with chronic opiate use. Fishman was working for Mozes J. Lewenstein at Endo Laboratories in New York when he created naloxone. Endo, established in 1920 and achieving its first major success with the anticoagulant Coumadin (warfarin) in 1948, initially saw little commercial potential for naloxone. It wasn’t until 1971 that naloxone received FDA approval and its use was primarily limited to hospitals and emergency medical services.
Initially, it was primarily used in hospital settings and by emergency medical services to counteract opioid overdoses. However, as the opioid crisis escalated, Naloxone’s availability and use expanded to the general public.
One of the remarkable things about Naloxone is its ease of administration. It can be given as a nasal spray or injection and does not require any specialised medical training. This simplicity has led to widespread distribution programs making Naloxone accessible to those who may witness an overdose.
Many treatment centers, rehab facilities and community organizations provide training on its use, empowering individuals and their loved ones to respond effectively to an overdose emergency.
Naloxone can be defined a drug that stops the functioning of opiate receptors in the nervous system. Naloxone can save lives in an overdose. Get help from qualified counsellors.Discover Naloxone: A Comprehensive Addiction Guide
Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and Thailand, WeDoRecover supports individuals globally, including those from the United Arab Emirates and Europe. Accepting both South African medical aid and international health insurance our organisation facilitates access to high-quality treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders, offering individualised care that addresses the physical, mental and social needs of patients.
Our team, led by Gareth Carter, offers empathetic and professional support, guiding you through every step of the treatment process. Whether you're in South Africa or abroad, our acceptance of various insurance plans makes quality care accessible, providing a platform for lasting recovery and a healthier future.
Inpatient Rehab
Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
Outpatient
If you're committed to your sobriety but cannot take a break from your daily duties for an inpatient program. Outpatient rehab treatment might suit you well if you are looking for a less restricted format for addiction treatment or simply need help with mental health.
Therapy
Therapy can be good step towards healing and self-discovery. If you need support without disrupting your routine, therapy offers a flexible solution for anyone wishing to enhance their mental well-being or work through personal issues in a supportive, confidential environment.
Mental Health
Are you having persistent feelings of being swamped, sad or have sudden surges of anger or intense emotional outbursts? These are warning signs of unresolved trauma mental health. A simple assesment by a mental health expert could provide valuable insights into your recovery.
Finding the right rehab close to you is simple with WeDoRecover. Our network includes the finest rehab centers, ensuring personalised, quality care for your recovery needs. Let Gareth Carter and our empathetic team help guide you to a center that feels right for you, offering expert care and support. Start your healing today by choosing a rehab that's not just close to you, but also that truly cares about your loved ones recovery.