Midlands joins fight against opioid crisis with “Save a Life Day”

COLUMBIA, SC (WACH) – As opioid overdoses continue to rise in South Carolina, local advocacy groups are working to save lives.

This month, South Carolina is joining more than 30 other states in a free naloxone giveaway.

Naloxone, better known by its brand name Narcan, is an easy-to-use nasal spray that reverses opioid overdoses. The previously prescription drug was approved for over-the-counter sale in 2023.

On September 26, South Carolina will be part of a multi-state initiative that includes more than 300 free naloxone events across the country.

Save a Life Day: East includes all states east of the Mississippi. The eastern half of the country is particularly affected by the overdose crisis. The 26 states east of the Mississippi accounted for nearly 64.5 percent of the country's overdose deaths in 2022.

The Courage Centre here in the Midlands will be part of the free event and also offers support for people and their families on the journey from substance abuse to recovery.