Ferris State is set to host a Narcan and Fentanyl Test Strip Distribution and Education Event on Feb. 15 and 16 from 2:00-5:00 p.m. across from Starbucks in the David L. Eisler Center.
The event, organized by the American Pharmacists Association and led by second-year pharmacy student Emily Smit, aims to educate Ferris students about the life-saving benefits of Narcan and the importance of Fentanyl test strips.
Smit says she will focus on the how, why and when at the tabling. How to use both Narcan and fentanyl test strips, why they are used and when to use them.
“Harm reduction is so important, and that is what this is, harm reduction. We’re going to keep you alive until you are ready for those next steps,” Smit says.
The distribution of Narcan and fentanyl test strips will be open to all attendees, with organizers noting that supplies may be limited.
“There is still a stigma we need to break with substance use disorders,” Smit says. “Whether you take an opioid, know someone who is struggling with substance use disorder, or are struggling yourself, there are so many reasons [to have Narcan on hand.]”
Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, will be a focal point of the event. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Narcan is a fast-acting medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, potentially saving lives.
Fentanyl, a prescription drug commonly used for pain control, will also be a key topic of discussion. Attendees will learn about the risks associated with its legal and illegal use, emphasizing the potential for overdose. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the symptoms of a fentanyl overdose are slowed or stopped breathing and the consequences of that can be fatal.
Fentanyl test strips will also be handed out at the tabling. These strips are a preventative measure used to help aid in stopping potential overdoses. These strips are important to be made accessible as opioid deaths climb every year. According to UC Davis Health, fentanyl is very deadly, as only two milligrams can cause an overdose, leading to death. It is also unable to be tasted or smelled, so it is extremely hard to know if drugs are laced without a test strip.
“A lot of people say we shouldn’t be giving someone who is struggling with addiction Narcan or fentanyl test strips, or some of the needle exchange programs that are out there because it reinforces them to, you know, use drugs and sustain their addiction, but that’s not the case.” Smit said. “Giving someone Narcan or fentanyl test strips or having them in a needle exchange program is not encouraging substance use disorders. We are trying to educate people so that when they are ready and no longer want to use drugs, we are making sure that they are alive so that we can help them.”
This event allows students an opportunity to act and help save lives; you never know when you may have the chance to save someone else’s life with the knowledge gained at this event or the resources given out.
Smit has this message for those who are struggling with substance use disorder.
“If they’re struggling with it, they’re not alone,” Smit said. “The help will always be there when they’re ready for it, and whether or not they believe it, someone out there loves them, and if they don’t think anybody loves them, I will love them.”
The event underscores the university’s commitment to promoting a safer and more informed campus community in the face of the opioid epidemic. By providing education and free distribution of Narcan and fentanyl test strips, Ferris and the American Pharmacists Association aim to empower students to respond effectively to opioid emergencies.
“I really hope that this helps people,” Smit said. “And it’s such a passion for me because I have friends and family members who have struggled with substance use disorders. So this is something that is very near and dear to my heart. I think no matter what anybody is struggling with, they deserve help, and I am hoping that this might be a way to show people who are struggling, you can find help.”