Milestone 50th use of life-saving nasal naloxone antidote by South Wales Police

The 50th use of a nasal antidote to save a life by South Wales Police officers and PCSOs took place last week.

Naloxone, an emergency antidote for overdoses caused by heroin and other opiate or opioid substances, is carried by more than 500 colleagues, who have volunteered to do so.

On December 22, its milestone 50th positive use was carried out.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Johnson, lead officer for naloxone, said:

“South Wales Police are leading the way in the nasal naloxone roll out and this is something of which we should be proud.

“Drugs do not discriminate, and we have successfully helped in saving the life of 50 individuals, who have been able to return home to family and friends.”

Naloxone works by reversing the breathing difficulties that can be brought on by an overdose of these substances, buying time for emergency medical care to arrive.

Police & Crime Commissioner Alun Michael said:

“The impact of drugs on those who sadly struggle with substance misuse, their families and entire communities is enormous, which is why we are working tirelessly with partners to tackle the problem in a number of different ways.

“In doing so, it’s important to remember that those struggling with addiction are often victims themselves, which is why it’s so important to intervene at the earliest opportunity, offer effective support and endeavour to break the cycle of harm.”