Community Information

Naloxone is an FDA approved medicine used to quickly reverse an opioid overdose. Naloxone interacts with opioids to bind with the same receptors in the brain, reversing the effects of an opioid overdose in 2 to 3 minutes. Carrying NARCAN® Nasal Spray can make all the difference in an opioid emergency. NARCAN® Nasal Spray has been approved as an over-the-counter medicine and no longer requires a prescription or standing order to obtain. This approval may make it easier to ensure your communities have access to this life saving medicine.

In a partnership effort to prevent fatal opioid overdoses in our community, Sangamon Township is partnering with the Piatt County Mental Health Center (PCMHC) to position a weather proof box at the Township Road Building that will contain Free boxes of Naloxone (Narcan) that will be available for members of our community. This box will be monitored and restocked by PCMHC.  While some may be concerned that effort is a permissive approach to substance use and/or could bring unwelcomed individuals to the community, the harm reduction model has clear evidence that it reduces, preventable deaths and encourages progressive discussions about treatment with those in the recovery community.  In addition, some may think that Naloxone is primarily used by those in active addiction, but this drug has also been used to save lives of those who have experienced an accidental overdose when taking their prescribed medication as part of a physician-monitored pain management program for a variety of medical needs.

For more information please visit narcandirect.com or contact the Piatt County Mental Health Center at 217.762.5371.