The Department of Veterans Affairs has proudly unveiled a new, 3-D printed Naloxone trainer at some Midwest VA clinics as well as Orlando, FL. The creation of the 3-D printed Narcan trainer comes on the heels of rising overdose deaths among the public. It is one of several initiatives the VA has taken to reduce the number of overdose deaths among veterans nationwide.
Created by a dedicated VA nurse, Diane Mosey, the 3-D printer trainer is an exciting opportunity to teach the public how to save lives. It's also a stark reminder of the growing problem of opioid overdoses plaguing Veterans and the public at large, and the importance of Narcan training.
Simplicity in Design
The VA’s Office of Advanced Manufacturing (OAM), took on the task of helping nurse Mosey’s Naloxone spray trainer design come to life. Mosey originally created a prototype of the trainer using a piece of plywood and some rubber bands to hold her creation in place. While it might be practical for small, personal use, Mosey enlisted the help of the OAM to create a more permanent solution.
What she created with the help of OAM was the 3-D printed Naloxone trainer, which will be mass-produced by the OAM and launched in several different VA medical centers nationwide. The transformation is nothing short of creative and extraordinary.
Humble Beginnings
The original design featured a mannequin’s nose (similar to that of a CPR dummy) held to a piece of plywood with bands. A chain-linked small Narcan spray bottle accompanied the device, intended to help the user simulate the action of spraying the life-saving opioid overdose reversal medicine in each nostril.
The new OAM-created device still has a clear human-like nose and an attached Naloxone spray. The spray is similar to Narcan, which is the most widely available Naloxone spray used by the public and even some first responders. There are other alternatives to Narcan, including other forms like injectables, but Narcan’s nasal form is the most widely used.
3 Steps to Saving Lives
In addition to having a Narcan-like spray bottle attached to the Narcan trainer, it also has three simple steps to follow when dispensing Narcan. The steps on the trainer are as follows:
- Hold nasal spray with thumb on plunger. Place index and middle fingers on nozzle.
- Gently insert the nozzle into nostril.
- Fully depress plunger.
The trainer also says to not prime Narcan before use. Priming means to spray the medicine a few times first to make sure it's working. Fortunately, you don't need to prime Narcan for it to be effective. Although priming and giving more sprays than necessary (1-2) won't have any adverse effects, even if someone isn't experiencing an opioid-related overdose, it's best to not waste the medication.
The trainer's intuitive and easy-to-use design makes it easy for laypersons to use the trainer without formal medical training or knowledge. For those who are more visual learners, there are also videos online about the Naloxone trainer which can help people learn more about the trainer and see it used in action.
Where to Find the 3-D Narcan Trainer
The VA's 3-D Narcan trainer is currently found in medical centers located in VISN-12, which includes Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois. A recent partnership with the Simulation Learning, Evaluation, Assessment, and Research Network (SimLEARN) has also led to the trainer being available in Orlando, FL.
The trainers are strategically placed in waiting rooms, allowing patients or their loved ones to practice using them while they wait for their appointments. This gives veterans and the public an opportunity to familiarize themselves with how to administer Narcan in case of an emergency.
The VA's goal is to expand the distribution of the trainers to more medical centers across the country in order to reach a larger population and prevent overdose deaths. According to their press release, they also plan on partnering with VA healthcare providers and community organizations to spread the availability of the trainer.
Why is Narcan Training Necessary?
Addiction among veterans is often linked to the high rate of chronic pain and mental health disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), that they experience. In addition, many veterans have been prescribed opioid medications for their injuries sustained in combat or during their service. This makes them particularly vulnerable to developing an addiction.
Sadly, U.S. military veterans make up a large percentage of those addicted to substances, including opioids. They have also been largely impacted by the opioid crisis. New statistics show that overdose deaths among veterans rose between 2010 and 2019 by a shocking 53%. The increasing number of overdose deaths is a wake-up call for the VA to act quickly and implement preventative measures like Narcan training.
Train to Act
Muscle memory and training are important for life-saving techniques, and this goes beyond just CPR. The more people who have hands-on experience using Narcan, the more lives that can be saved in opioid overdose emergencies.
The VA's 3-D Narcan trainer brings us one step closer to achieving this goal by providing a simplified method of training individuals on how to use Narcan. It provides people not only the know-how, but the confidence to use Narcan if or when they encounter someone experiencing an opioid overdose.
Decreasing Stigma
While the public is used to seeing trainers for CPR, washing hands, or using an AED, seeing a Narcan trainer may be unfamiliar. However, putting trainers on the forefront raises awareness and helps decrease the stigma around opioid addiction.
The more we talk about it, the more people will realize that addiction and overdose deaths are an ever-growing reality. While there is no easy way to solve the opioid crisis, the VA's 3-D Narcan trainer is a step in the right direction and saves lives in the meantime.
Stay Prepared with Narcan on Hand
Being trained in using Naloxone spray and Narcan can help save lives. For veterans and their families alike, as well as the public, knowing where to access Narcan and how to properly use it is crucial. The VA's 3-D Narcan trainer makes this training more accessible and easy to learn, providing a sense of preparedness for any potential opioid overdose emergency. Narcan Finder can also help those looking for Naloxone near them. Use our search tool to find Narcan and Naloxone near you, so you can be prepared and help save a life.
A new bill signed by Governor Newson improves headway for all California employers to, eventually, stock Naloxone in first aid kits. The bill, AB 1976, sets a deadline of December 1, 2028, for the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board to consider proposals that would require all employers to have Naloxone or other opioid antagonists readily available on their worksites.
Naloxone in California and nationwide has become increasingly important as opioid-related deaths continue to rise. From workplace fatalities to accidents caused by overdoses and drug use, it's no surprise that lawmakers are now pushing for its widespread availability in the workplace.
What is AB 1976?
Assembly Bill 1976 is a bill that proposes the Division of Occupational Safety and Health of California (Cal/OSHA) submit amendments to requirements for first aid kits in California. According to these amendments, employers would now have to legally include Naloxone or other opioid antagonists on worksites. The bill aims to ensure that all employers in the state of California are equipped with life-saving medication that's stored properly and easy to access.
However, the bill did receive pushback from some organizations. In particular, the National Electrical Contractors Association and other construction industry stakeholders found it difficult to support changes to first aid kit standards right away. These organizations expressed concerns over proper storage of medication in construction sites, for instance, and training protocols for administering Naxolone. However, since the bill now only states that a proposal must be considered by December 1, 2028, and not necessarily implemented by then, many organizations have started to support it.
Why is Naloxone in California important in the workplace?
Naloxone is a medication used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. As opioid-related fatalities continue to increase in both California and nationwide, having Naloxone readily available in the workplace can save lives. In fact, according to a recent Cal/OSHA Petition, overdoses now account for nearly 1 in 11 worker deaths on the job nationwide. In California specifically, over 18% of workplace deaths in 2021 were due to an unintentional overdose.
Unfortunately, the signs and symptoms of someone struggling with an opioid addiction might not always be apparent, especially in the workplace. In addition, overdoses might not always be apparent, especially with opioids.
Recognizing Signs of an Overdose
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of an overdose, in addition to having naloxone on hand, can play a huge role in saving lives. Signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose can include:
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Drowsiness or difficulty staying awake
- Small, pinpoint pupils
- Confusion or disorientation
- Blue or purple tint to lips and fingernails
If you notice any of these signs in a coworker or employee, it is important to take action immediately. This could mean administering naloxone if available, calling 911, and providing first aid until help arrives.
In addition to recognizing these signs, proper training on administering naloxone can also make a significant impact in the workplace. By having naloxone and trained employees, businesses can be better prepared to handle emergencies.
Where Can Employees Find Naloxone?
Fortunately, Narcan and naloxone are available over the counter at most pharmacies. This means that anyone can purchase and keep them on hand in case of emergencies, including in the workplace. Even if you are not required by law to have naloxone in the workplace, or don't use opioids yourself, it can still be a potentially life-saving measure to have on hand.
Other places you can access Narcan and naloxone in California besides a traditional pharmacy include:
- Public health clinics
- Harm reduction centers
- Needle exchange sites
- Hospitals
- Community organizations
These are all excellent places where employees can also access resources for addiction treatment in addition to Naloxone in California. Whether it's enrolling in a rehab program or harm reduction, every resource that can help promote recovery and safety should be utilized by employees.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Workplace
Even if state law doesn't require Naloxone in California for employees, businesses should consider carrying naloxone to benefit and protect employees. Having naloxone available in the workplace can also send a message of support and safety for employees struggling with addiction or those who have loved ones who use opioids.
In addition, providing resources such as employee assistance programs, mental health services, and education on substance abuse can create a more open and supportive environment. In short, while state laws pave the way toward de-stigmatization of drug use, employers can do their part to create a safe and supportive workplace for all employees in the meantime.
Educating Employees about Proper Naloxone Use
Another important step in preventing opioid overdoses in the workplace is educating employees about proper Naloxone use and storage. Like most medications, Narcan and other opioid antagonists should be used as directed to get the most benefit.
AB 1976 specifically wants nasal naloxone in California to be provided in workplaces. Nasal sprays like Narcan are incredibly easy and intuitive to use. All you need to do is remove the protective cap, place the nozzle in a nostril, and press down on the plunger to administer the medication.
However, it's important for employees to understand how to properly store naloxone as well. The medication should be kept at room temperature and protected from direct sunlight. It should also be stored out of reach of children or anyone who may accidentally misuse it.
Employee training should include recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose, administering naloxone, and calling for emergency medical assistance. Additionally, employees should be made aware that naloxone is not a replacement for professional medical care and that calling 911 is always the best course of action in case of an overdose.
Encouraging Naloxone and Narcan Use
Whether someone is at home or at work, having Narcan or Naloxone on hand can mean the difference between life and death. AB 1976 highlights the importance of continuous change and support for people with substance and opioid use disorder. Narcan Finder is here to help employees and employers alike in obtaining, storing, and using naloxone properly! Check out our interactive map to find Narcan sites near you. Whether you're looking for Naloxone in California or any other state, Narcan Finder has you covered.
Gone are the days when the only life-saving tool for students at school was the EpiPen at the nurses’ office. Narcan for students is vital to have on hand, and recent incidents show having naloxone available can save students’ lives and prepare teachers for the worst.
But, can parents depend on their schools to stay prepared in case their children suffer from an overdose? While some schools might now be stocking up on this opioid antagonist, the stigma surrounding opioid use might still hinder some schools and faculty from fully embracing the life-saving nature of Narcan.
California Leads the Way In Naloxone Availability for Students
The good news is that many states are now encouraging and even creating policies to ensure naloxone, Narcan, and other opioid antagonists are stocked and ready to be used for children at school. California is, in fact, one of the best examples of states taking the initiative to save lives, with policies helping college, middle school, and high school students.
The Campus Opioid Safety Act for College Students
The Campus Opioid Safety Act was signed into law in January of 2023. This law requires all public college campuses in the state to provide educational and preventive information about opioid overdose to all students on campus as part of their orientation and to distribute a federally-approved opioid overdose reversal medication like Narcan or other naloxone.
Budgeting for High School and Middle School Students
California’s Governor Newsom’s proposed 2023–24 state budget also included $3.5 million to purchase naloxone for every middle and high school in the state. While millions in funding might seem incredibly steep for this medication, the life-saving effects of these policies are already being seen.
In San Fransisco, East Bay High School was one of several schools with naloxone on hand after the School District ordered 144 units to be placed strategically around several schools. The result - a school nurse trained to administer Narcan saved the life of a student suffering from an opioid overdose in April of this year.
As of March 2023, Los Angeles also allows students to carry their own Narcan in schools. With Los Angeles Unified School District standing as the second-largest school district in the Nation, only time will tell if their decision to allow students access to Naloxone and Narcan will influence other districts to follow suit.
Hesitations Perists Due to Opioid Stigma
With these inspirational stories and changes becoming more common in schools, one would think that states, including California, would readily implement a 100% availability policy for students. Unfortunately, even California has its issues, with a recent report from CalMatters finding that some college students still struggle with finding Narcan despite the Campus Opioid Safety Act.
Some of the many myths that might prevent schools from carrying Narcan include issues such as:
- Carrying Narcan means we are a bad school
- Allowing opioid-reversal drugs only encourages use among students
- Narcan is only necessary in schools with high drug activity.
These hesitations and stigmas are often perpetuated by a lack of education and understanding about opioids and addiction. In reality, carrying Narcan does not make a school "bad" – it shows that the school is proactive in protecting its students' health and well-being. Furthermore, having Narcan for students readily available does not encourage drug use – it simply provides a safety net for those who may accidentally or intentionally overdose.
It's also important to note that opioid overdoses can occur anywhere, regardless of the level of drug activity in a school. With the rise of prescription opioid abuse, even schools with no history of drug activity should still consider carrying naloxone.
Narcan Availability in States
States are rapidly evolving their policies to encourage and even legally require various insurers, institutions, and schools to carry naloxone. According to the January 2023 Naloxone Access Summary of State Laws by the Legislative Analysis and Public Policy Association:
- Thirty states have statutory language regarding access to naloxone in schools.
- Ten of these states require each school district to develop a policy concerning the use of naloxone
- Twenty states allow schools to possess naloxone and authorize a school nurse or other school employee to administer naloxone but do not require schools to do so.
- States including Maine, Nevada, Iowa, and New York, allow schools to possess and keep naloxone on the premises
- Maryland, Washington, Wisconsin, and now California, have laws that address primary and secondary schools as well as higher education.
Stay Informed and Prepared During Back to School
As parents, it's also vital that we stay informed and educated on state laws, where to access Narcan for students, and how to recognize the signs of opioid overdose. Familiarize yourself with your state's laws regarding naloxone in schools. Find out if your child's school has a policy for administering naloxone.
Parents should also talk to their children about the dangers of prescription opioid abuse and how Narcan for students can save lives. If you haven’t already, consider purchasing a Narcan nasal spray or other form of naloxone for you or your child. Even carrying it with you when attending school events or activities with students present might prove to be a life-saving decision.
Find Narcan Near You
If you need help finding Narcan for students, for your child, or for yourself, use our search tool today! Narcan Finder provides the latest information on harm reduction sites, addiction centers, and other sites near you to help you get access to life-saving naloxone. It's easy to use our search tool to help you stay prepared for the upcoming school year and might be the difference between life and death.
Eye-Opening Investigation Shows OTC Narcan Harder to Find in Stores Than Thought - Learn How Breaking Stigma is Key
It's no secret that Narcan is a life-saving medication, but that still doesn't make it easier to find (or ask for). The FDA approved this medication for over-the-counter use recently in March of 2023, paving the way for it to be sold in major pharmacies. However, despite its importance and availability through various channels, it has been reported that Narcan is actually harder to find in stores than many people originally thought. A closer look and investigation by NBC News reveals that the stigma surrounding opioid use and addiction is still very much present, leading to barriers to access to this crucial medication.
Narcan in Pharmacies
As mentioned earlier, the FDA's 2023 approval of OTC Narcan was a landmark in helping provide this life-saving medication to those who may need it. This approval ensured that Narcan, also known as naloxone, is available without a prescription and can be purchased in various pharmacies across the country.
Narcan No Longer Needs a Prescription
Narcan is such a household name in today's world due to the increasing number of opioid overdose deaths. However, it was only in 2017 that this opioid antagonist became available through prescription.
Narcan prescription mandates have developed since 2017, with different states enacting laws such as prescribing the medication when prescribing opioids, if prescribing 50 to 90 mg or more of morphine equivalent (MME) daily, or when a patient has a history of substance abuse. Despite these state mandates, obtaining Narcan wasn't always easy for those who needed it.
While a prescription is no longer needed to obtain the life-saving medication, and it is available in pharmacies across the nation, this doesn't mean it's any easier to access. On the contrary, continued stigma, the pricing of Narcan, and varying availability in different pharmacies and gas stations has made it difficult for those in need to obtain Narcan.
Asking for Help - Not Easy for Some
When visiting a pharmacy or store, the normal thing for someone to do when having difficulty tracking down an item is to ask a store associate. Easy enough, right? Unfortunately, this isn't necessarily the case for people in need of Narcan.
Customer Service Variability
Even if the person buying the medication musters up the courage to ask for help, not all pharmacists are well-versed in naloxone and its uses. While NBC News' investigation found that all CVS Pharmacists are trained to administer Narcan, this isn't the case for all pharmacies. Some pharmacists may not be familiar with naloxone or may hold negative attitudes toward those struggling with addiction, making it difficult to obtain the medication.
One bad attitude can be enough for someone to hesitate to ask for help, especially in such a vulnerable situation. This highlights the importance of not only making naloxone readily available but also providing education and training to pharmacists and store associates on how to handle these situations with empathy and understanding.
Hiding in Plain Sight
Another unfortunate finding from NBC's investigation is that while the medication may be available in pharmacies, it isn't always readily visible or advertised. Some stores may keep Narcan behind glass cases, making it difficult for those in need to locate and obtain the medication.
Pharmacies also tend to organize Narcan in different sections, from behind the register to the front of the register. The investigation even found some packages wrongly organized in a COVID-19 test section. In short, there really is no section dedicated to opioid overdose prevention in most pharmacies.
Additionally, there may be little to no promotional materials about Narcan, making it even more challenging for people to know that it's available without a prescription. Unlike popular medications like Tylenol or allergy medicine, Narcan may not be advertised in stores or featured in pharmacy flyers. This lack of promotion perpetuates the stigma surrounding addiction and contributes to the difficulty in obtaining this life-saving medication, even if it's sold at a pharmacy.
The Cost Barrier
While obtaining Narcan may not require a prescription anymore, it can still come with a hefty price tag. A single box (with two packages of Narcan spray inside) can cost up to $49.99 without insurance, while the lower end is $45. This high cost may deter some individuals from purchasing the medication.
In addition, smaller family-owned pharmacies might charge even more for Narcan, as they don't receive the same bulk discounts that larger chain pharmacies do. This cost barrier can be especially challenging for those who are uninsured or underinsured and may not have the means to afford such a high-priced medication.
Fortunately, states such as California are in talks of obtaining cheaper, generic forms of Narcan to make it more accessible and affordable for all individuals. However, the road to approval for generic naloxone isn't short or easy, leaving many individuals in need without a lower-cost alternative and dependent on Narcan on store shelves.
Not All On Board
While some gas stations and pharmacies may carry OTC Narcan, not all are on board with the idea. NBC's investigation found that many gas stations, which usually sell cigarettes and alcohol, have been hesitant to carry Narcan. Fear of promoting drug use or being exposed to liability might be a factor.
Pharmacy chains such as CVS continue to share that doses are readily available and for sale. But, for those who can't quickly find Narcan in their local pharmacy, gas stations, and other businesses that are hesitant to carry the medication, might be the only option - for better or for worse!
The Importance of Breaking Stigma
While pricing is difficult to control, one common thread among these barriers is the stigma that Narcan carries. Whether stigma leads to pharmacies hiding the medication in plain sight, makes it difficult for people to ask for help from associates and pharmacists, or even prevents it from being sold at all, the stigma surrounding addiction and Narcan is very real.
Breaking this stigma is essential in ensuring that individuals who need Narcan have access to it. Education on the lifesaving abilities of Narcan, as well as understanding that addiction is a disease and not a choice, can help break down barriers and make it easier for individuals to obtain this crucial medication.
In addition, there are several things to keep in mind if you're buying OTC Narcan for yourself or a loved one.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. Whether you need help locating Narcan or need assistance administering it, don't let the stigma surrounding addiction stop you from getting the help you need and ask pharmacists and store associates for help. It's their job!
- Spread awareness and advocate for access to Narcan. By sharing information and advocating for easier access to this medication, you can help break down stigma and save lives. Asking your local pharmacy to move Narcan out from behind the counter or to carry it at all can make a huge difference.
- Look elsewhere besides pharmacies. Don't give up if you're having trouble obtaining Narcan at your local pharmacy. There are other options, such as community health centers and harm reduction organizations, that provide Narcan for free or at a reduced cost.
- Educate yourself on how to use Narcan. It's essential to not only have Narcan on hand but also know how to administer it correctly in case of an emergency. Many organizations offer training and resources on how to properly use Narcan.
Access to Life-Saving Medication
Ultimately, having Narcan is not a sign of weakness, but rather a proactive step towards saving lives. The more individuals who have access to this medication, the more lives can be saved. While NBC News' investigation did highlight the difficulties of obtaining Narcan, it also shed light on the need for increased education and awareness surrounding this life-saving medication. By breaking down stigma and advocating for easier access to Narcan, we can help prevent unnecessary overdose deaths and support those struggling with addiction.