FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — A visiting assistant professor of social work at the University of Arkansas has been awarded more than $5,900 worth of overdose reversal medicine from the Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership (AORP) to distribute across Northwest Arkansas.
Naloxone, more commonly known as Narcan, is a medication that can reverse an overdose induced by opioids when administered promptly.
Christiane C. Long, a faculty member at the U of A, received the medication as a part of AORP's Naloxone Hero Project. The project essentially encourages people in Arkansas communities to apply for credit to use at their Naloxone Bank. Those who apply are referred to by AORP as "heroes." Not only do the heroes distribute the naloxone to those in their community, but they also host trainings on how to administer the drug.
"An opioid overdose can occur from fentanyl, heroin, or prescription opioid medications," Long said. "Naloxone is easy to use and convenient to carry. Any community members who want to carry naloxone to save someone from an overdose can receive free doses and training through this program."
Now that Long has received credit for the Naloxone Bank, she will begin distributing free kits across Benton and Washington counties to individuals, families, civic organizations, nonprofit organizations, and more. For each kit, she will also train the community on how to administer naloxone as well as information on substance use and addiction.
"Opioid abuse has reached epidemic levels in many parts of the world, leading to a significant number of overdose deaths and devastating communities," Long said. "By talking about it openly, governments, healthcare professionals, and communities can work together to address this public health crisis effectively."
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 106,699 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States in 2021. 75% of those deaths involved opioids.
According to the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), there were 415 overdose-related deaths in Arkansas in 2023 with over 4,270 naloxone administrations. Washington County had 27 deaths with 356 naloxone administrations, while Benton County had 34 fatalities and 272 administrations in 2023.
"I believe Northwest Arkansas is one of the best places to live and want to ensure it stays that way for the many people who call it home," Long said. "Drug use, and overdose, doesn't just affect individuals; it also impacts their families, friends, and our communities. To request naloxone for yourself or your organization in Washington and Benton counties, please contact me."
To reach out to Long, call her at (501) 492-9216 or email her at christianelonglcsw@gmail.com.
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