Police

Opioid Prevention

Free Naloxone What are Opioids?

Opioids are substances, either natural or synthetic, that bind to opioid receptors in the brain and body, reducing pain signals.
Natural vs. Synthetic: Some opioids are derived from the opium poppy plant (opiates), while others are created synthetically in labs.

How do they work

Opioids work by binding to opioid receptors, primarily in the brain and spinal
Effects: Besides pain relief, opioids can produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and drowsiness.

Types of Opioids

Prescription Opioids: Commonly prescribed for moderate to severe pain, including hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet), morphine, and codeine.
Illegal Opioids: Heroin is a well-known illegal opioid.
Synthetic Opioids: Fentanyl, a very potent synthetic opioid, is often illegally manufactured and mixed with other drugs.

Risks and Concerns

Addiction and Dependence: Regular opioid use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and opioid use disorder (OUD), characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior.
Overdose: Opioids can slow or stop breathing, leading to potentially fatal overdoses, especially at high doses or when combined with other substances.
Side Effects: Common side effects include drowsiness, constipation, nausea, and slowed breathing.

The Freemansburg Police Department in partnership with the Bethlehem Health Bureau has a new initiative aimed at combating opioid overdoses in the community.

This initiative provides FREE access to Naloxone, a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose when administered promptly.

What is Naloxone?

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, which means it blocks the effects of opioids in the brain, including respiratory depression and sedation.
Naloxone can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including overdoses from heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications.
Naloxone is available in various forms, including nasal sprays, auto- injectors, and injectable solutions.
Naloxone nasal sprays are prefilled, needle-free devices that are easy to use, even for individuals without formal medical training.
Naloxone is considered safe and effective for reversing opioid overdoses, and it has minimal side effects.
Naloxone is not addictive and has no potential for abuse.
Naloxone will not reverse overdoses caused by other substances, such as benzodiazepines or stimulants.

Why Naloxone is Important:

Naloxone can save the life of someone experiencing an opioid overdose by restoring normal breathing.
The widespread availability of Naloxone is a critical component of efforts to combat the opioid crisis and reduce overdose fatalities.
Naloxone enables bystanders, including friends, family members, and first responders, to intervene in overdose situations.

Important Note:
Its crucial to call 911 or emergency services immediately after administering Naloxone to ensure the person receives proper medical attention.

The goal of this initiative is to increase the availability of Naloxone to individuals at greatest risk of opioid overdose as well as the others most likely to interact with these individuals.

The Freemansburg Police Department’s Naloxone dispenser is placed in the lobby of the Borough’s municipal building. Anyone can access the dispenser during normal business hours.

Each Naloxone Kit inside the dispenser will contain Naloxone nasal spray and instructions on how to administer the medication.

If you have questions or concerns regarding opioids addition or prevention, please contact a member of our Police Department for more information.