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The county will offer free training for the administration of naloxone, a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
The drug, also sold under the brand names Narcan® and Evzio®, among others, can treat overdoses of heroin as well as prescription drugs including hydrocodone (Vicodin®) oxycodone (OxyContin®, Percocet®), oxymorphone (Opana®), morphine (Kadian®, Avinza®), codeine and fentanyl.
Naloxone is often administered as a spray into the patient’s nostrils, but is also available as an injectable drug, which provides a faster reaction.
The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene announced a statewide standing order that allows pharmacies to dispense naloxone, as of June 1, 2017, to anyone without a prescription to help combat the increase in deaths from opioid overdoses.
Locally, the two-hour training will be offered on Monday, April 9 at the Department of Health and Human Services center at 8818 Georgia Ave. from 1-3 p.m.
Those who complete the course will receive a free Naloxone kit, as well as tips on overdose prevention and information about local and national resources. Kits typically retail for between $140-$190 as may not be covered by insurance.
The training is free, but registration is required by calling Erin Fashion (240.777.4538) or Tiffaney Hall (240.777.4704).
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