Overdose Awareness Day: Naloxone Can Save a Life
8/29/2025
Natalie Wilkin, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident
International
Overdose Awareness Day, observed on August 31, raises awareness about the
impact of overdose and highlights tools that can save lives. One of the most
effective is Naloxone (brand name Narcan), a medication that can quickly
reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
“Naloxone works by
binding to the same receptors as opioids and essentially kicking them off,”
said Natalie Wilkin, a pharmacy resident with Aspirus Health. “That is what
allows it to rapidly reverse the harmful effects during an overdose.”
The warning signs of
an opioid overdose include slow or stopped breathing, very small pupils, cold
or clammy skin, and unresponsiveness. Recognizing these symptoms and acting
quickly is critical. Calling 911 and administering Naloxone immediately can make
the difference between life and death.
According to Wilkin,
“Respiratory depression is the biggest sign to watch for. That means slow
breathing or no breathing at all.”
Naloxone is safe,
widely available, and easy to use. It can be purchased at most pharmacies
without a prescription. Access is not limited to health care providers.
Friends, family members, and community members are encouraged to keep it on
hand.
“You do not have to
be a health care provider, just someone who cares,” Wilkin said. “Family
members, friends, and neighbors can all make a life-saving difference by
carrying Naloxone.”
As communities mark
Overdose Awareness Day, Aspirus encourages people to learn how to recognize an
overdose, keep Naloxone nearby, and take action in an emergency.
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