pioid overdoses continue to take lives in rural America. To combat the problem, Oklahoma law enforcement agencies have been certified to administer an overdose rescue drug. The drug, known as naloxone, has already helped save the lives of 30 people in the state,reports KRMG.
Terri White, commissioner of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, says “This is a significant issue in Oklahoma. The good news is that we are beginning to see these efforts pay off.”
State legislation approved in 2013 allows for expanded use of naloxone as a rescue medication. The drug works effectively when a traditional medical setting isn’t available. First responders or family members may administer the drug to counteract the effects of an opioid overdose. Opioids are a drug class that includes heroin, codeine, hydrocodone and oxycodone, among others.