Naloxone, a drug that reverses the effects of an opioid-overdose, has been used by first responders and medical professionals to save lives. Now, it’s in the hands of addicts and their loved ones.

The Johnstown Free Medical Clinic, also known as Highlands Health, gives the prescription to anyone who needs it.

From February to April of this year, 23 people have been saved.

“We are literally getting the Narcan in the hands of those who need it the most. In the hands of individuals who are using drugs or their family members who are perhaps the first person on the scene when someone might overdose,” said Rosalie Danchanko, the executive director of the clinic.

Through grants from the naloxone company, Evzio, the clinic received 800 units since 2016. In addition, the clinic received 1,000 nasal spray doses of naloxone. Each dose costs around $2,400.

The clinic has distributed over 1,200 units of naloxone in the past year and a half. They train the patients how to use the antidote, which is injected into the victim’s thigh. An automated voice also explains the instructions.

“A lot of people know about the EpiPen, which works for allergy reactions. Well, this works the exact same way. But it’s Narcan,” said Nancy Piatek, a registered nurse who volunteers at the clinic.

Each box comes with two doses of naloxone and one trainer. Nurses said it’s important to practice as much as possible, so if someone does overdose there’s no delay in delivering the medication.

“It’s best that you’re comfortable with it. So the trainer’s there. Use it over and over again to train yourself so that you won’t panic at that time,” said Piatek.

Clinic workers said they will keep distributing naloxone and building relationships with the patients in hopes that one day the addicts will choose to get clean.

“You can’t help someone who has died. You can only hope to save their life so they can eventually make the choice to go into recovery,” Danchanko said.