Opioid Overdose Prevention Program

Harm Reduction Resources

Harm reduction is taking actions that reduce the risk of spreading disease and dying from an overdose. The following resources can help.

Naloxone (Narcan) Nasal Spray

Narcan is a medication used to reverse an opioid overdose and is available in dispenser boxes around campus.

Narcan is safe for anyone, including children, pregnant individuals, and pets. If a dose of Narcan is given and there is no response after 2-3 minutes, a second dose can be administered. Each box of Narcan contains two nasal sprays.

Narcan Dispensers on Campus

There are a total of 31 dispenser boxes, and every building on and off the UWEC campus has one. Most of the boxes are located next to an AED machine. Narcan is free and can be taken from a box for any reason, not just in an emergency.

Narcan Dispenser Google Map

Each Narcan dispenser box on campus contains a fentanyl test strip kit. The kit contains the items needed for 5 tests. The fentanyl test strip kits are free and can be taken at any time, not just in an emergency.

No one knows who takes items from the dispensers. The police are not notified, no alarms are triggered, and the dispensers are not equipped with cameras.  They are checked regularly, but only to refill them. 

If you notice an empty dispenser, please notify Christy Prust at prustce@uwec.edu.

Never Use Alone

Using drugs alone increases the risk of fatal overdose.  Having someone with you or staying connected to a trained operator can save a life.

Use with someone you trust.  Having another person present means they can give Narcan and call 911 if an overdose is suspected.

If you are alone, connect with a trained operator.  A trained operator can stay on the line and call for help if you stop responding.

Hotlines include:

1. SafeSpot Overdose Prevention Hotline: 1-800-972-0590
2. Never Use Alone (US National Overdose Response Line): 1-877-696-1996

Fentanyl Test Strip Kits

Fentanyl test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl in other drugs. When fentanyl is mixed with other illegal drugs, you are not able to see it, taste it, or smell it. Knowing if a drug contains fentanyl can reduce the chance of an opioid overdose.

Sharps Disposal

Sharps should be disposed of properly to reduce the risk of needlestick injuries, cuts, and puncture wounds. Examples of sharps include needles, syringes, lancets, infusion sets, connection needles/sets, and auto injectors. 

Find disposal locations in Eau Claire County.

Medication Drop Off

Remember to get rid of unused medications, including opioids, when you are done taking them.  

Location of UWEC box, the medication drop box is available for free and can be used 24 hours a day, 7 days week. You may dispose of your pill bottle in the box or place your pills in a small sealable bag to avoid spilling. Pull the handle located on the front of the box and place unwanted medication inside.

Find community medication drop-off locations.

Xylazine Test Strips

Xylazine, also known as tranq, is a mediation used for animals and is not approved for human use.  It can slow breathing, affect the brain, and cause serious skin wounds.  Xylazine has been found in fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and other drugs.  The only way to detect it is by using xylazine test strips. Narcan will not reverse the effects of xylazine, but it should still be used because opioids may also be present. 

Where to get xylazine test strips

1. Eau Claire City-County Health Department: 720 Second Ave. (715-839-4718)
2. Vivent Health: 505 S. Dewey St. (715-836-7710)