Opioid overdose deaths are a growing concern, and deaths from addiction and drug overdoses have generally increased dramatically in Nebraska.

Overdose awareness week is Aug. 25-31.

About 43 million Americans are affected by this treatable and avoidable disease, said Meaghan Wade, who heads up Substance Abuse Prevention for Community Connections.

Wade said that Naloxone, aka Narcan, is used to counteract life-threatening effects of an opioid overdose. While Narcan can be helpful in treating an overdose, it is also vital to protect people who come in contact with dangerous opioid-related drugs.

Nebraska DHHS previously issued a standing order to further increase the availability of naloxone access.

This order allows the public to have naloxone dispensed through a pharmacy. The expanded availability of naloxone to friends, family, and bystanders will increase the probability that it will be administered promptly and prevent death from an overdose.

Now, individuals can go to a pharmacy and receive 1-5 kits of Narcan at a pharmacy, instead of 1-4 kits previously. 

Wade said she sees firsthand the damage done.

“This growing opioid issue is a real concern for us in Lincoln County,” she said. “We want our community to be as protected as possible from overdoses. Some ways to do this are having Narcan on hand, using medication lock boxes for controlled substances, and taking advantage of our monthly drug take-back event, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month at Bomgaars in North Platte.”

Wade further notes the pricelessness of partnering for positive change with a quote from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

“No single organization or person can address the multitude of services needed to help people affected by mental health or substance use conditions… the best sources are the people who live, serve, and work in the community, and the best results are often seen when they undertake such action together.”

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