Narcan administration training Thursday in Butte

In Butte, Montana, the increasing prevalence of fentanyl abuse has become a critical public health concern, making the availability of naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, more important than ever. Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, has been driving a surge in overdose deaths across the United States, including in smaller communities like Butte. Narcan is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses, including those caused by fentanyl, by rapidly restoring normal breathing in individuals who have stopped breathing due to an overdose.

With just over 30,000 residents, Butte has hardly been immune to the opioid crisis. Like many rural and urban areas across the U.S., it has seen a rise in opioid-related deaths in recent years, driven largely by fentanyl.  Just last weekend, over a 72-hour period, Butte saw 6 individual fentanyl overdose cases.  Fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, sometimes without the user’s knowledge, leading to an increased risk of fatal overdose.

Narcan is critical in reversing these overdoses. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, effectively displacing the opioid molecules and restoring normal respiratory function. This can buy precious time for individuals to receive further medical care, potentially saving lives. In the context of fentanyl overdoses, Narcan is especially vital because fentanyl can be many times more potent than heroin or morphine. A standard dose of Narcan might not be enough to counteract the overdose effects of fentanyl, but multiple doses can provide a chance to survive until emergency medical services arrive.

For communities like Butte, Narcan’s importance goes beyond the direct medical impact. It also represents a shift in how society approaches opioid addiction and overdose prevention. By making Narcan more accessible to first responders, community organizations, and even the general public, Butte is taking proactive steps to address opioid misuse. Many local groups, including law enforcement, healthcare providers, and public health agencies, are working together to distribute Narcan widely, raise awareness about its life-saving potential, and provide training on how to use it effectively.

The Butte-Silver Bow Health Department will be hosting two Narcan administration trainings in the Health Department Conference Room on Thursday, November 21st. The first class is at 10:00 a.m. and the second is at 2:00 p.m. Limited openings available, please call 406-497-5087 to reserve your spot as soon as possible. Please call if you have any questions.