Meridian police used Narcan to help rescue two people suspected of overdosing on fentanyl on Thursday, according to a news release.
The overdoses occurred about six hours apart at separate addresses, the Meridian Police Department said. Fentanyl, a powerful opioid used to treat pain, is highly addictive and can be fatal if abused.
“In both cases, the subjects survived with the help of Narcan,” police said in the news release Friday.
Narcan is the brand name of the drug naloxone, which reverses the deadly effects of an opioid overdose.
Republican lawmakers passed legislation in March that restricts eligible recipients of federal naloxone grants, according to a previous report by the Idaho Statesman. Starting in July, only first responders will receive free naloxone kits from the Idaho Department of Health and Wellness, which oversees the grant program.
Police said in the statement that three people were arrested on various drug charges after a search warrant was executed at the address where one of the overdoses took place.
“This is just another example of why our legislature must take the necessary action against those who wish to traffic fentanyl and other harmful drugs into our state,” the police chief said. Meridian, Tracy Basterrechea, in the release.
In April, a Caldwell police officer was hospitalized after accidental exposure to fentanyl, according to a news release at the time. The department said the officer “cheated death” after taking possession of the drug, in pill and powder form, while searching for a suspect. He self-administered naloxone.
Meridian cop who punched man 6 times didn’t break any policies, chief says
Man arrested on suspicion of murder after shooting at Idaho hot springs
The Boise police officer has made more than 3,500 impaired driving arrests. He was cited for drunk driving