ECU partners with Pitt County Coalition on Substance Use to assist students with lifesaving medication
East Carolina University’s Center for Counseling and Student Development and Student Health Services are partnering with the Pitt County Coalition on Substance Use to provide the lifesaving medication Narcan (generic name naloxone) to students. ECU students have had access to Narcan through Student Health Services Pharmacy since February 2020.
Narcan is an opioid antagonist used for complete or partial reversal of opioid overdose. Students who seek Narcan are assisted in a discreet, nonjudgmental manner by going to Student Health Services Pharmacy and asking for a “Pirate Safety Kit.” Each kit includes two doses of Narcan as well as other harm reduction resources and written educational materials regarding substance use and treatment.
ECU police officers also have access to the medication in case of potential overdose emergencies.
ECU is one of dozens of universities across the country providing access to Narcan to its students. Additionally, ECU provides education to students regarding the dangers of opioid use, including signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose as well as how to access Narcan. The university also has a Good Samaritan amnesty regulation that is intended to encourage students to seek medical assistance for a fellow student during a potential overdose emergency.
“The Center for Counseling and Student Development and Student Health Services are pleased to partner with the Pitt County Coalition on Substance Use,” said LaNika Wright, associate vice chancellor for health and well-being. “This allows us to continue educating individuals on the risks of substance use as well as the importance of Narcan as a lifesaving medication.”
The Pitt County Coalition on Substance Use (PCCSU) works to bring about a community in which youth reject substance use, adults utilize low risk choices regarding substance use and treatment services are available to those in need. The coalition provides community training on how to use Narcan and the significance of this lifesaving medication.
“PCCSU is excited to develop this partnership with ECU to ensure that resources are available to college students. We are always looking for ways to support and educate the community,” said Lillie Malpass, executive director of the Pitt County Coalition on Substance Use.
For additional information visit the Center for Counseling and Student Development, Student Health Services or Pitt County Coalition on Substance Use websites.
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