ASA urges public to learn to recognize opioid overdose and how to use naloxone

Editor's Note

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), on March 29, issued a news report urging the public to learn to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose, now that the Food and Drug Administration has approved naloxone for sale over the counter.

Naloxone, which is commonly sold as a nasal spray, is safe and easy to use, and it quickly reverses an opioid overdose by blocking the effects of the drug, restoring breathing and consciousness.

According to the report, it was previously sold with or without a prescription, but only behind the pharmacy counter, and many people may have not wanted to ask for it because of the stigma associated with opioid use

The ASA notes that anyone can encounter someone experiencing an overdose at any time and anywhere, like restrooms, parking garages, and public transportation. And anyone can save a life by administering CPR and naloxone.