HENDRICKS COUNTY – Hendricks County residents can now obtain a free naloxone rescue kit (Narcan brand) and opioid overdose reversal training from the Hendricks County Health Department (HCHD) while supplies last.
“Naloxone is a life-saving medication for our loved ones who suffer from substance use disorder, in this case opioids, as it can reverse an overdose” says Chase Cotten, Public Health Education Specialist for HCHD. “I think of it as the second chance at recovery I would hope to receive if I was in the same struggle – because no one recovers when they die of an overdose.”
The Health Department was awarded these nasal naloxone rescue kits from the Indiana State Department of Health to help prevent opioid overdose deaths in the county. Along with the kits, participants are also given a resource packet that directs them towards numerous treatment, recovery, support, and preventative healthcare options that are available in Hendricks and surrounding counties. The end goal is to provide residents the chance to get the help they or their loved ones who are struggling with opioid addiction deserve.
“The academic and medical communities agree across the United States and world that addiction is indeed a brain disease; therefore, those who are suffering from it deserve to get much needed treatment—without any stigma attached,” reports Dr. David Stopperich, Health Officer for the county. “Naloxone, which can reverse an opioid overdose, is the first step for many in the treatment and recovery process.”
Community members who are at risk of having an opioid overdose or those who can assist individuals who are at risk of having an opioid overdose, such as a family member or friend, are eligible for a free dose of naloxone after receiving training. Training appointments can be scheduled by calling (317) 745-9618 or emailing ccotten@co.hendricks.in.us.
The personal information of those who wish to receive naloxone and training is kept completely confidential and is not shared with the public in any way. For more information about Naloxone and a map of other distributors, please visit https://optin.in.gov/.
