Huntington Announces New Plan to Combat Opioid Overdoses

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Mayor Steve Williams joined representatives of the Cabell-Huntington Health Department and Marshall University School of Pharmacy on Wednesday to announce a new drug plan for the city.

The Health Department received a supply of 2,200 doses of EVZIO naloxone auto-injectors from kaléo, a Richmond-based pharmaceutical company.

According to a release, EVZIO is the first FDA-approved naloxone product specifically indicated for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose as manifested by respiratory and/or central nervous system depression.

The drug is intended for immediate administration as emergency therapy in incidents where opioids may be present.

Opioid overdose can cause a person’s breathing to severely slow down and even stop.

EVZIO is a pre-filled, single-use, hand-held auto-injector that works by temporarily blocking the effect of an opioid, potentially reversing the life-threatening respiratory depression and allowing the recipient to breathe more regularly.

“The rising number of overdose deaths from opioid-based prescription drugs and heroin is one of the top concerns for our community,” said Dr. Michael Kilkenny, physician director for the Cabell-Huntington Health Department. “This new product delivers a potentially life-saving dose of naloxone via a simple to use auto-injector system that is easy to carry and administer to someone experiencing an opioid overdose.”

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito also applauded the move in a statement.

“After hosting a drug prevention roundtable last month with Huntington Mayor Williams, local law enforcement officials, drug treatment providers and advocates, it was clear that Huntington’s efforts to stem the drug epidemic should serve as a model for other cities across America. Today’s announcement reinforces this fact. It is a testament to the initiative shown by the City of Huntington, Cabell County, Marshall University and other local groups who have come together to fight the drug crisis on all fronts,” said Capito.

Every on-duty Huntington Police officer and Huntington Fire emergency response vehicle will carry a supply of naloxone upon completion of the certification and educational sessions, according to Mayor Williams.