We have all seen statistics surrounding the opioid epidemic, numbers about deaths, arrests, babies born dependent, and more. Behind each number is a life – a family member, loved one, close friend, even coworker. Losing a loved one to opioids turns worlds upside down and tears families apart. What can be done? How can we help our loved ones?
From October 2017 to September 2022, over 53,000 lives have been saved thanks to Narcan® (naloxone) here in Tennessee. However, many of these people do not make it past the first year after an overdose. Why? Narcan® (naloxone) treats the overdose, not the underlying opioid use disorder.
At ReVIDA® Recovery, we understand the importance of Narcan® (naloxone) and how crucial it is to seek treatment after an overdose. We provide education to the community on topics surrounding opioid use disorders to help loved ones understand the complexities behind them. Today, we are looking at where to find Narcan® (naloxone) in Johnson City.
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The Significance of Narcan® (Naloxone)
Narcan® (naloxone) is a medication used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It works by blocking the opioid receptors in the brain from binding to any opioid no matter if it is legal or illicit. The importance of Narcan® (naloxone) is to save lives. However, this comes with a lot of stigma.
One stigma surrounding Narcan® (naloxone) is that it encourages people to use more opioids because they possess the life-saving medication. A recent survey found that the opposite is actually more prominent. Those who have been given Narcan® (naloxone) before stated they would not want the medication again. The effects of Narcan® (naloxone) are intense as it throws the person into precipitated withdrawal. Survey participants revealed that this made them feel very unpleasant symptoms and they would not want to feel that way ever again. Because of this, participants reported they were more cautious with their opioid use when they knew Narcan® (naloxone) was present.
Another stigma is that Narcan® (naloxone) doesn’t fix the problem, it just allows the person to continue on with their opioid use disorder. This is not entirely true – yes, some will continue their use after being revived with Narcan® (naloxone). However, many choose the path of treatment. Receiving Narcan® (naloxone) can act as a wake-up call and allow the person the opportunity to seek treatment. Addressing the opioid use disorder instead of just the overdose is the beginning of recovery.
Harm Reduction Programs in Johnson City, Tennessee
One of the biggest harm reduction tools utilized across the country is needle exchange programs. In Johnson City, East Tennessee State University has partnered with Cempa Community Care to provide needle exchange services and Narcan® (naloxone) distribution. The goal is to offer sterile injection supplies to those using intravenous substances as well as education about HIV/AIDS and other bloodborne illnesses. The program is called STEP TN and is located at 615 N State of Franklin Rd. Johnson City, TN 37604. Services are available on Tuesdays from 1 pm to 4 pm. For alternative testing or more information, contact the office at (423) 930-8337 ext. 136 or 117.
Local Narcan® (Naloxone) Distribution Centers in Johnson City
Narcan® (naloxone) is widely available through many outlets. Here in Johnson City, Insight Alliance provides Narcan® (naloxone) to anyone in need. Carrying Narcan® (naloxone) is not just for those taking opioids – family members, friends, and community members should all have the medication on hand just in case. Insight Alliance also connects those in recovery to support groups and resources. Those looking for Narcan® (naloxone) can contact Brooke Burleson at (423) 956-6529.
In neighboring Sullivan County, the Anti-Drug Coalition also distributes Narcan® (naloxone). Their contact information is below:
Regional Overdose Prevention Specialist
Sullivan County Anti-Drug Coalition
3193 Hwy 126
Blountville, TN 37617
(423) 956-6529
Narcan® (naloxone) is also available at many local pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS. You do not have to have a prescription to purchase it in Tennessee. If the pharmacy has a policy where you do need a prescription, the pharmacist is able to provide that prescription without fear of a civil suit thanks to the Good Samaritan Law. Because pharmacy chains like CVS are state-wide, they may choose not to carry Narcan® (naloxone) for purchasing.
Government Narcan® (Naloxone) Distribution
In Tennessee, the largest provider of Narcan® (naloxone) is the Regional Overdose Prevention Specialists (ROPS). This group is made up of paramedics, certified peer recovery specialists, nurses, and more to offer a variety of knowledge. From October 2017 to March 2023, ROPS has distributed over 450,000 units of Narcan® (naloxone) with each containing 2 doses, and has also trained over 300,000 individuals in Narcan® (naloxone) administration, substance use disorder’s effect on the brain, and stigma and compassion fatigue. The state of Tennessee is divided into 13 regional divisions, with Washington County being in Region 1. Contact information for this region is below:
Frankie Nunley
frankie@scadcoalition.org
(423) 956-6529
Brooke Burleson
brooke@scadcoalition.org
(423) 956-9286
How to Buy Narcan® (Naloxone) Online
Finding Narcan® (naloxone) online is an easy process as it is widely available. Amazon carries different Narcan® (naloxone) kits ranging in price and amount of doses. CVS, Walgreens, and other pharmacies with online shopping also sell Narcan® (naloxone). Various overdose prevention websites provide shipping for Narcan® (naloxone) and some even offer it for free. Harm Reduction Tennessee distributed Narcan® (naloxone) for free anywhere in Tennessee. They also provide other products for harm reduction including syringes, glassware, and test strips for fentanyl and benzodiazepines.
Narcan® (Naloxone) Administration Training in Johnson City
You do not have to go through training to administer Narcan® (naloxone) but it is highly recommended so you understand how to give the medication properly. As we mentioned above, ROPS can connect you with local, Johnson City training sessions. However, the state of Tennessee has made it easier to get connected to training by offering an online program. The course takes 15-20 minutes to complete and awards a certificate at the end. Not only will you know how to administer Narcan® (naloxone), but you will also learn the signs of an overdose, what to do and not do, and how to keep yourself safe in the situation.
How is NarcanⓇ (Naloxone) Administered?
The brand name Narcan® (naloxone) refers to the nasal spray medication. To administer Narcan® (naloxone), support the person’s neck and tilt their chin up to have the best angle. Insert the tip of the applicator into one nostril and use your fingers to press the sides down. This releases the medication into the person’s nose to begin taking effect. It is important to note that medical attention is still needed after Narcan® (naloxone) is given. Narcan® (naloxone) causes sudden and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and it can be dangerous to return to use at this time. Medical professionals will be able to help ease the withdrawal symptoms and provide resources for treatment options.
Getting Help for Opioid Use Disorder in Tennessee
While Narcan® (naloxone) is an excellent tool against opioid overdoses, it does not address the full scope of the issue. Opioid use disorder is a mental health condition that many will need help to find recovery. Thankfully, there are other medications that assist in providing hope to leave opioids behind. Suboxone treatment works by keeping cravings in check and clearing your mind to begin understanding where your opioid use disorder came from. Through therapy and skill-building classes, you will learn about mental health and the different factors contributing to your opioid use disorder. Healing is possible and your journey can begin today.
Do you know someone managing an opioid use disorder? ReVIDA® Recovery is here to help. Our program incorporates medication-assisted treatment with flexible, outpatient programming that fits a variety of schedules. Case managers are also available to help with housing, jobs, food stamps, legal troubles, and more. Call us today at 423-631-0432 to learn more about our program offerings.
Reclaim your life.
FAQs About Narcan® (Naloxone) in Johnson City
Is Narcan® (naloxone) over the counter in Tennessee?
Yes, because of the Good Samaritan Law, Narcan® (naloxone) is available over the counter at many pharmacies and online retailers in Tennessee.
