The Director of Public Affairs for Medavie Health Services West says since the pandemic paramedics continue to see a steady rise in the number of patients who require Naloxone. Narcan is a brand name for Naloxone. It’s a life-saving medication which can reverse an overdose from opioids, including fentanyl, heroin and prescription opioid medications.

Troy Davies says 2023 was another record year for naloxone administrations with 744 patients receiving the drug from Medavie paramedics in Saskatoon. That’s an increase of 109 from 2022, which is an almost 15 per cent rise. Davies says, “Mental health and addictions is the number one issue in cities across Canada and as one of the fastest growing cities in the country this is something we will continue to deal with.”

In Saskatchewan, friends and family of people who use opioids are eligible for free training and a free Take Home Naloxone kit. Click here for more information.