TAMPA, Fla. — Despite new numbers from the CDC showing fatal drug overdoses slightly down statewide from 2021 to 2022, some Tampa Bay area counties have seen an increase in that same timeframe.
Still, experts say the use of a now over-the-counter medication could help bring those numbers down by the end of 2023.
What You Need To Know
- Experts say the use of Narcan, now an over-the-counter medication, is helping to reduce fatal drug overdoeses
- William Atkinson founded Epicenter Recovery Foundation, which distributes Narcan free of charge to the public
- Atkinson says harm reduction efforts are having an impact on fatal overdose rates in Pasco and Pinellas counties
Narcan, generically known as naloxone, is a medication that can help revive someone during an overdose. Organizations like the Epicenter Recovery Foundation distribute Narcan free of charge to the public as part of its harm reduction efforts.
Founder William Atkinson said it's having an impact on the fatal overdose rates in both Pasco and Pinellas counties for 2023, with numbers from local health departments showing a downward trend.
“We expect by the end of the year, we’re going to come under 2021 numbers,” Atkinson said of data.
Atkinson said those statistics coincide with a statewide push by organizations to distribute free Narcan. The Epicenter Recovery Foundation handed out the medication to businesses on Clearwater Beach this past spring break. Next, the foundation will be placing purple boxes containing free Narcan in strategic places in Pasco County by the end of November.
“This is a non-stigmatizing way for people to have access to a life saving medication. As well as free,” Atkinson said.
The foundation and its partners, including the Pinellas County Opioid Task Force, are able to provide the public with free Narcan courtesy the Florida Department of Children and Families, which supplies the medication for distribution.