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Naloxone and Overdose Prevention

Naloxone, a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids such as fentanyl, is available on the Malibu campus.

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. There are two types of fentanyl - pharmaceutical fentanyl and illegally made fentanyl.

Pharmaceutical fentanyl is a synthetic opioid prescribed by doctors for treating severe pain. It is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and heroin. However, illegally made fentanyl is a synthetic opioid available on the drug market in different forms, including liquid and powder.

Drugs mixed with fentanyl are extremely dangerous, and many people may be unaware that their drugs contain it. Powdered fentanyl looks just like many other drugs. It is commonly mixed with drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine and made into pills that are made to resemble other prescription opioids. In its liquid form, illegally made fentanyl can be found in nasal sprays, eye drops, and dropped onto paper or small candies.

Fentanyl Overdose

Synthetic opioids like fentanyl contribute to nearly 70% of overdose deaths in the U.S. Over 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Over the last few years, nonfatal and fatal overdoses involving fentanyl have continued to rise. Most cases of fentanyl-related overdose are linked to illegally made fentanyl. Even in small doses, fentanyl can be deadly.

Drugs that are not prescribed to you and that are not dispensed from a reputable source may contain deadly levels of fentanyl, and you wouldn't be able to see it, taste it, or smell it. It is nearly impossible to tell if drugs have been mixed with fentanyl.

Be cautious of pills and drugs that are not prescribed to you.

Signs of Overdose

Recognizing the signs of opioid overdose can save a life. Here are some things to look for:

  • Loss of consciousness or limp body
  • Slow, weak, or no breathing
  • Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
  • Choking or gurgling sounds
  • Cold, clammy, and/or discolored skin

What To Do 

If you suspect someone may be overdosing:

  1. Always call 911 immediately, and call DPS if on campus. Find someone who can administer Narcan.
  2. Tell 911 and DPS that Narcan is needed for a suspected overdose.
  3. Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
  4. Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
  5. Stay with them until emergency workers arrive.

Calling for help is covered by the Good Samaritan Policy if you Call, Stay, and Cooperate.

Resources

  • If you or someone you know is concerned about substance use, reach out to Pepperdine Counseling Center. The Counseling Center provides confidential assessment and counseling services at no additional charge for students, and connects family members with supportive community resources. 
  • Substance Abuse Service Helpline (SASH): 844.804.7500
  • Recover LA Mobile App

  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 800.662.HELP (4357)