For Clients
Recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose can save a life.
Opioids include both prescription pain medications — such as oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), morphine, codeine, and fentanyl — and drugs like heroin. These substances are often used for pain relief, but taking more than the body can tolerate can lead to unconsciousness, respiratory failure, and death.
Opioid overdoses happen when someone takes a larger amount of an opioid than their body can handle. An opioid overdose can lead to death.
Naloxone (brand name “Narcan”) is a safe, easy-to-use medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It works by blocking opioid effects and can restore normal breathing within minutes.
In most states, including South Carolina, naloxone is available at your local pharmacy without a prescription.
Naloxone is available as a nasal spray or an injection into a muscle. To administer the nasal spray, place the tip of the nozzle in one nostril and press the plunger firmly to release the dose. If, after 2 minutes, the person has not responded, use a second dose in their other nostril.
In South Carolina, Good Samaritan laws protect the individual experiencing the overdose and those providing assistance from arrest or legal charges.
Call 911 immediately
Administer naloxone
Attempt to keep the person awake and breathing
Lay the person on their side to avoid choking
Stay with them until emergency responders arrive
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.