Central Point, Ore. — Central Point Police joined Medford Police Department in carrying a drug in squad cars that can save someone’s life from an overdose.
Central Point Police trained officers and equipped all patrol vehicles with Naloxone Hydrochloride, also known as Narcan. The drug counteracts the effects of Heroin, Oxycontin, and other types of painkillers. It can greatly increase their chances of survival from an overdose. The drug isn’t only helping local police, it’s assisting other emergency departments as well.
“It takes a while for fire to get there. we’re usually there before they are. we’re a lot more mobile. so we can be there and render that first aid in those critical moments,” Lt. Chadd Griffin said.
Medical professionals said family members and friends of drug addicts – and even those who have been prescribed opiates by a doctor – should have the ability to administer Naloxone should an emergency occur.
The drug is already available at Walgreen’s Pharmacy without a prescription in 35 states, including Oregon and California.
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