Some law enforcement agencies in northern Illinois are finding creative ways to replenish their supplies of a pricey emergency drug that can save the lives of those who overdose.
Naloxone, often known by the brand name Narcan, can be administered before emergency personnel arrive. It isn't harmful even if it's given to someone who didn't actually overdose. Some police departments use money secured through drug seizures to purchase the life-saving drug.
The director of emergency operations for the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office, Jerry Wiltfang. He says his agency works with Mercyhealth. Deputies replenish supplies from ambulances and the ambulances get their naloxone from the hospital.
