What You Should Know About Opioid Overdose & Naloxone — And Why It Matters in Alaska
- Sunshine Staff
- Nov 25
- 2 min read
Opioid overdoses can affect anyone who uses prescription opioids, illicit opioids, or is around someone who does. Potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl have increased the urgency for community readiness. Naloxone—a safe, fast-acting medication—can reverse an opioid overdose when used quickly.
National Data
• The CDC reports an estimated 79,358 U.S. deaths in 2023 involving opioids.
• The drug overdose death rate in 2023 was 31.3 per 100,000 people.
• The opioid crisis has evolved in “three waves”: prescription opioids, heroin, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
Alaska Statistics
• From 2018–2022, Alaska recorded 633 opioid-involved overdose deaths.
• Alaska’s 2022 opioid overdose death rate was 24.9 per 100,000.
• Mat-Su and Anchorage continue to experience high non-fatal overdose rates.
What Is Naloxone?
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that blocks opioid effects and restores breathing. It works within seconds and cannot harm someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose. After giving Naloxone, emergency help is still required.
Recognizing an Opioid Overdose
Signs may include:
• Slow or absent breathing
• Blue or gray lips and fingertips
• Pinpoint pupils
• Unresponsiveness
• Limp body or gurgling sounds
Naloxone FAQs
• Can you use Naloxone even if you’re unsure? Yes—it's always safe to give.
• What forms exist? Nasal sprays like Narcan® and injectable versions.
• Should you keep multiple doses? Yes—overdoses involving fentanyl may require more than one dose.
• Who is at risk? Anyone using opioids, mixing opioids with depressants, or exposed to illicit drugs contaminated with fentanyl.
Where to Get Naloxone in Alaska
• Alaska Project HOPE distributes free kits statewide.
• State health department resources offer free mail-order options.
• Many Alaska clinics, tribal health organizations, and pharmacies provide Naloxone (some over the counter).
• Mail-order access also available through NEXT Harm Reduction.
Why Training Matters
Being able to recognize an overdose and use Naloxone confidently saves lives. In rural Alaska, where EMS may take longer to arrive, trained community members can make a critical difference.
We Offer Training
Sunshine CHC provides individual and group Naloxone training, including:
• Recognizing overdose signs
• Administering Naloxone correctly
• What to do after giving it
• Maintaining and replacing kits
To schedule training for your organization or community group, contact us anytime.
Special Note:
Our very own LPN, Layla Micheli, will be teaching the Willow CERT Team how to use Naloxone kits effectively on December 6th. This training is especially important for CERT members because they are often first on scene in community emergencies, where rapid response can save a life.
This event is not open to the public, but if you are interested in hosting a training and inviting Sunshine CHC to teach, we are happy to help.
Sunshine Community Health Center
1-907-376-2273 (CARE)
*This article was written with the support of AI*
