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Recent data shows that five Albertans die every day due to drug poisoning.
In the first seven months of 2023, there have been 1,169 overdose deaths, the vast majority due to opioid use.
Tyler Lorenz, executive director of Residents in Recovery says there is a life-saving solution that everyone should know about.
“Naloxone is used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Alberta and Saskatchewan—every province in Canada, has a take-home naloxone program for naloxone kits that you can just take, free of charge,” said Lorenz, adding they are available at every pharmacy, and locally at Residents in Recovery and the Prairie North plaza, at the harm-reduction office.
“They’ll also do the training (at pharmacies) they’ll give you the kit and show you how to use it.”
An important thing to note, especially in the winter months, is that the Naloxone in the kits will freeze if left in vehicles. It is best to keep it at room temperature if possible.
Lorenz says it’s very easy to use and there’s no risk of harming anyone.
“Like I could give myself a naloxone shot right now and there would be absolutely no effect on me at all. It only has any effect if someone is under the influence of opioids, otherwise, it’s a completely inert substance,” said Lorenz.
“You’re better to err on the side of caution, for sure. I mean, if they’re unresponsive and you know that they’re an active user, there’s a really good chance that they’re in an overdose state.”
Lorenz facilitates monthly naloxone training courses supported by the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation. He is also available to go into workplaces and train staff members on how to use the life-saving naloxone kits.
