THE 100th use of nasal naloxone to save a life by South Wales Police (SWP) officers and PCSOs has taken place.
Naloxone is a medication that quickly reverses the effects of an overdose from opioids. Opioids are drugs such as codeine, morphine, heroin, methadone or fentanyl.
The emergency antidote is used in cases of overdoses and is carried by around 700 SWP police officers, PCSOs and Special Constables.
In April 2022, PC Kyle Scott became the first officer from SWP to successfully administer nasal naloxone to revive a woman who then remained alert until paramedics arrived to provide the necessary care.
This week, its milestone 100th positive use was recorded, just over two years since chief officers gave front line officers access. Of these, 32 were administered by officers in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.
The number of staff from SWP volunteering to carry nasal naloxone has also continued to grow since its introduction.
Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Johnson, lead officer for naloxone, said: “South Wales Police is leading the way in the nasal naloxone roll out and this is something of which we should be proud.
“Drugs do not discriminate, and we have successfully helped in saving the life of 100 people, who have been able to return home to family and friends.”
Naloxone works by reversing the breathing difficulties that can be brought on by an overdose of these substances, buying time for emergency medical care to arrive.
DCI Johnson added: “Unfortunately drug related poisonings remain high in South Wales with new challenges emerging regularly, the latest being synthetic opioids.
“Nasal naloxone is just one of many interventions that is required to reduce drug related deaths. We continue to work with partners agencies to reduce drug poisonings.”
If you need treatment for drug addiction, you’re entitled to NHS care in the same way as anyone else who has a health problem. Where to get help.
Send us your News, Sport, Events, Letters and Advertising here.
- Defence solicitor bought cocaine from client
- Police warning about ‘intimidating behaviour’ in parks
- Information requested following suspected ‘upskirting’ incident
⭐ All of our social media in one handy place – here
Pencoed tangled up by ‘Seaweeds’
Primary school’s former deputy head is banned from teaching
I make no apologies for calling Plaid Cymru ‘separatists’
‘The importance of participation and continued learning’
Opposition leaders clash with First Minister over independence rally
How Kevin saved a stranger’s life
