*Names have been changed
Sarah, who uses our service, wanted to share their experience of using naloxone. Naloxone is a drug that temporarily reverses the effect of overdose from opiates.
“I have used naloxone kits 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 straightforward 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 it does 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.