August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day – timely, because more than 107,000 people died of drug overdoses in the United States in 2023. Of those, more than 81,000 were opioid overdoses.
There have been bright spots in the fight against the U.S. opioid epidemic – notably, that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2023 approved naloxone over the counter, which can reverse many of the life-threatening effects of an opioid overdose. The National Safety Council and Center for Disease Control began calling on businesses to stock naloxone in their workplaces.
Naloxone works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, displacing the opioid molecules and then reversing respiratory depression, which is the primary cause of death in opioid overdoses. The FDA approval covered three nonprescription naloxone nasal spray versions: brand names Narcan and RiVive, as well as a generic version.
The United States has the world’s highest death rate from opioids by far. Workplaces, where opioid use has increased along with its more frequent overall use, have seen not only higher overdose incidents, but also an increase in occupational injuries caused by opioid use. In this sense, employers already are on the front lines of the opioid crisis. Naloxone is a way to fight back.
Naloxone nasal spray has proven effective even when administered by people who don’t have medical training, giving employers a realistic opportunity to prepare for and take action against an opioid overdose.
Preparedness is important because:
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Naloxone may be purchased in a kit that includes the nasal spray in an easily stored pouch. Some states provide free naloxone kits, but rules vary based on local or state law.
As with other tools kept on-site, employers choosing to stock naloxone should make sure those who may be administering it are properly trained.
Employers should carefully consider whether training should apply to all employees or only to a smaller population, and employees should have the freedom to opt-out if they don’t feel comfortable being asked to administer the treatment.
Naloxone training should be held at least once annually for those who have agreed to dispense it in an emergency.
The cost of naloxone can be a concern. Costs vary, but Narcan typically sells for around $50 for two doses, and RiVive is generally around $40 for two doses. Programs and grants are available to help businesses obtain the medication at little or no cost.
Your company can partner with local health departments, nonprofit organizations and pharmaceutical companies to secure funding and resources. In some states, these organizations can help you access free kits.
Many health insurance benefits plans cover the cost of naloxone kits, as well.
Providing education and awareness campaigns can help address resistance to or misconceptions about substance abuse disorders.
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On this year’s Overdose Awareness Day, you can help protect your loved ones, co-workers and neighbors by learning more about the risks of an opioid overdose and how to take action. In the workplace, both employers and employees can learn how to spot the signs of an opioid overdose. Knowing and understanding the signs and symptoms, having a naloxone kit on hand and training people how to administer naloxone can help save a life.
Axcet HR Solutions encourages businesses to assess their risks and determine if keeping naloxone at their worksites is appropriate. If it is, employers need to follow the training recommendations included earlier in this article.
If your business would like help developing a plan to prevent opioid overdoses in your workplace, schedule a consultation with Axcet HR Solutions today.