*Names have been changed
Sarah, one of our service users, wanted to share their experience of using Naloxone. Naloxone is a drug that temporarily reverses the effect of overdose from opiates. Read more about naloxone here.
“I have used a Naloxone kit around six to seven times with various friends and people I know to save their life when they have overdosed. I find them very easy to use and straight forward and I felt better knowing I had done something to save their lives. Every time I have used a Naloxone kit, the person has come round quite quickly and been quite groggy.
I have never had anyone angry with me for using this, most are grateful and tearful. Most are shocked because they didn’t realise they had overdosed. It feels good knowing I have saved lives and these kits really are life-saving and should be given out to everyone. Everyone deserves to live and not die from an overdose.
I have also been given Naloxone around eight times in the past when I have overdosed. Initially, I felt ill when I came round and experienced withdrawals symptoms but felt groggy and ‘out of it’. After a while though, I started to feel better as the Naloxone wore off and I didn’t feel ill anymore. I have always been grateful every time this has been given to me as I do not want to die from an overdose, especially when this is preventable. I am especially grateful to my friend who is needle-phobic who gave me Naloxone, as this must have been so hard for him.
I am happy to share my stories to help people who may be in doubt over having Naloxone as I really believe they do save lives.”
If you use opiates like heroin or methadone and need a Naloxone kit, we can provide you with a kit and training on how to use it. Get in touch with your nearest hub to find out more.
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