Preventing a Fatal Heroin Overdose

Heroin overdose deaths have become a tragically common occurrence throughout our communities. Our suburban communities in New Jersey have been hit especially hard in recent years. In fact, statistics show that at least half the country has seen a dramatic rise in overdose fatalities from the previous year, with the Northeast representing a large portion of that. A major factor contributing to the rise is overdoses, is all the new heroin pouring into our country that comes from different sources and varies widely quality and unpredictable purity. The end result is that the user may prepare what they consider to be a “normal dose” while actually taking far more than intended. Also, unknown to most users, a person’s tolerance typically decreases after a period of abstinence (ex. during rehab). However, if someone relapses and takes a “normal dose” that they were previously used to, the user may experience drug effects that are much greater than expected, potentially resulting in a dangerous overdose. Moreover, as heroin exchanges hands between dealers, cutting agents are often added to increase their profits. It is speculated that an unknown portion of heroin related deaths are the result of an overdose or allergic reaction to quinine, which may sometimes be used as a cutting agent.

This alarming increase in heroin-related deaths has prompted the police and many emergency response professionals to use Narcan and other life-saving drugs when responding to an overdose call. Narcan saves lives by facilitating breathing in patients suffering from impaired respiratory function during an overdose – which is the leading cause of overdose-related deaths. Emergency Narcan administration has reversed over 10,000 near fatal overdoses since 2001. If you suspect that your friend or loved one is suffering from a heroin-related overdose, then you should call 911 immediately.