The Daily What if You Could Save Someone From an Overdose?
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May 4, 2023 Jan Hoffman, a health law correspondent for The New York Times and expert on the opioid crisis, dives into the critical topic of Narcan, a newly approved nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses. She explains its potential to drastically change the opioid crisis landscape by making it available over-the-counter. Hoffman discusses the history of Narcan, the challenges of accessibility, and societal perceptions. With increasing acceptance, she highlights the importance of normalizing Narcan's use to save lives and combat stigma.
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Shifting Views on Opioids
- Narcan's history reflects evolving views on opioid use and those who use them.
- Initially, opioid overdoses were viewed as a consequence of the drugs themselves, rather than a social or medical problem.
Harm Reduction Movement
- The harm reduction movement, led by activists like Dan Bigg, began distributing naloxone alongside clean syringes.
- This grassroots effort aimed to reduce HIV transmission among IV drug users.
First Responder Resistance & Change
- First responders initially resisted using Narcan, viewing it as enabling drug use.
- This resistance diminished as the opioid crisis spread to wider demographics, affecting families and communities across the country.