PONTIAC, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Most people are familiar with Narcan, an over-the-counter treatment used to reverse opioid overdoses. However, law enforcement in Oakland County has been using a new drug antagonist they say is more effective, and it is the first agency in the nation to equip its officers to administer it.
What is the new drug?
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard appeared on The Steve Gruber Show on Wednesday to discuss the results of a nearly year-long pilot program where law enforcement in his jurisdiction have used Opvee to treat opioid overdoses triggered by synthetic fentanyl. Opvee is a nasal spray approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Like Narcan, it reverses the effects of opioids and stays longer in the body. According to law enforcement, it is safe and easy to use to restore normal breathing and blood pressure during an overdose.
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“We’ve saved hundreds of lives since we’ve been carrying these antagonists,” Bouchard told Gruber, describing Opvee as another tool in their tool box. “It’s the only FDA-approved antagonist specifically for synthetic fentanyl. We’re seeing tons of it on the streets.”
A Senate bill could change things.
Since that synthetic fentanyl is not going away, Bouchard is encouraging Michigan’s legislature to pass Senate Bill 542. It would expand access to FDA-approved antagonists by allowing it at no cost and allowing local agencies to choose how best to administer opioid antagonists. Michigan’s current standing order only includes Narcan, where victims often need multiple doses to be revived.
Bouchard explained that his officers are seeing synthetic fentanyl in every kind of drug, including marijuana. He said marijuana that’s laced with synthetic fentanyl is “the stuff that’s purchased on the street.” He explained, “That’s why if you’re a marijuana user, go to a licensed and regulated facility.”
How bad is Michigan’s opioid problem?
Opioids contributed to 80% of drug deaths in Michigan and caused 3,000 deaths in 2023. Bouchard said non-habitual and experimental drug users might try a pill they think is Xanax or an Adderall, but it’s counterfeit.
“You have no idea if it’s been tainted,” Bouchard warned.
SB 542 has been referred to the Committee of the Whole.
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