COLUMBUS – Calling the sudden increase in heroin and opioid overdoses this past weekend a “public health epidemic,” Columbus officials urged addicts and their loved ones to buy an anti-overdose drug and said the city is planning a new rehab center.
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“Heroin addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that can cause devastation in a community that is already vulnerable,” Health Commissioner Dr. Teresa Long said at a news conference Tuesday. “All of this is about moving people along a path to recovery.”
Long urged anyone with a loved one addicted to heroin, or anyone who is addicted to heroin, to purchase naloxone. Commonly known by the brand name Narcan, the drug will reverse the effects of an opioid overdose within seconds.
“When you use an opioid or heroin, have someone else present. When you use with someone else present, take turns so someone is conscious to help,” Long said. “We urge everyone to seek treatment for their addiction, but the most important thing is to be sure that you have the ability to provide Narcan.”
Narcan is sold at most pharmacies throughout central Ohio, including Kroger, CVS and Walgreens, and Long said most insurance plans, including Medicaid, will cover the drug’s cost.
Columbus City Council President Zach Klein has co-authored legislation that would provide $250,000 in capital funds to create a new rehabilitation center at Livingston Avenue and Lockbourne Road on the East Side. The city council will vote on the legislation on Monday.
At least two of the overdoses that took place this weekend occurred at a McDonald’s on Livingston.