All You Need to Know About Narcan: Our Doctors Explain

The leading cause of accidental death in the United States is not motor vehicle accidents, drownings, or falls. It is drug overdose.¹ Of the 105,452 drug overdoses that occurred in 2021, more than 82,000 of them involved an opioid.² According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 91 people die of an opioid overdose each day throughout the country.¹

The opioid crisis has continued to deeply impact people of all ages, with more people now than ever before having some form of connection to opioid addiction or overdose. Individuals who use opioids, along with their friends, family, and loved ones, can benefit from knowing about Narcan (naloxone), including how to use it, when to administer it, and what to do to ensure the best possible outcomes in the event of an opioid overdose.

American Addiction Centers’ Dr. Trautman and Dr. Calarco have answers to these and other questions. First, Dr. Trautman will explain what Narcan is and how it works.

One of the most common opioids involved in opioid overdoses is fentanyl, an opioid that is up to 50 times more potent than heroin and up to 100 times more potent than morphine.³ Despite fentanyl’s unmatched potency, Narcan can reverse the intense effects it produces and still potentially save a life if administered in time (though it may require multiple doses).⁴ Dr. Trautman explains:

If you are addicted to opioids, have a loved one who is, or are a concerned community member, learning how to reverse an opioid overdose with the use of Narcan is pivotal. Dr. Calarco demonstrates how to administer Narcan to someone who appears to be overdosing on opioids, as well as discusses why it is important—and safe—to administer this medication even in situations where it’s not certain that the person is experiencing an opioid overdose.

If you or someone you love are struggling with opioid misuse or addiction, do not waste one more second. Call our team of compassionate, dedicated professionals right now at to learn more about how River Oaks can help.