.webp/:/cr=t:0%25,l:0%25,w:100%25,h:100%25/rs=w:1209,h:806)
Naloxone
Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is a medication which can save someone's life from an opioid overdose.
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist designed to rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. The Coalition offers free trainings and free kits upon request.
What is Naloxone?
How does it work?
An opioid overdose happens when the drugs slow down or stop a person’s breathing. This is because opioids attach to certain parts of the brain that control breathing. Naloxone works by attaching to those same parts of the brain and blocking the opioids. This helps the person start breathing normally again.
Watch a video about how Naloxone works.
Important Facts About Naloxone
Naloxone does not affect someone who isn’t having an opioid overdose. It’s also been shown to be safe for people who may have used other types of drugs.
There are two main types of naloxone: a nasal spray and a shot. The nasal spray is easier to use and more common. The shot works faster, but it needs more skill and preparation to use.
Naloxone acts quickly and is very effective, but it only lasts for 30 to 90 minutes. That means the overdose can return after that time. It’s important to stay with the person and call for emergency help. If the person shows signs of overdose again, give another dose.
Side Effects of Naloxone
Naloxone will have no side effects for many people. People who use opioids often and are physically dependent may have withdrawal symptoms after receiving naloxone. These symptoms can include headaches, sweating, feeling sick to the stomach, vomiting, shaking, fast heartbeat, and changes in blood pressure. Some people may wake up feeling confused, angry, or upset because of these effects.
Where Can I Get Naloxone?
Our Coalition
Naloxone Distribution Project
Naloxone Distribution Project
We offer free Narcan for pickup along with distribution at our trainings and events. Email us at info@sacopioidcoalition.org or learn more here!
Naloxone Distribution Project
Naloxone Distribution Project
Naloxone Distribution Project
If you're a community organization, hospital, or local government agency, and you're looking for large quantities of Narcan, check out the NDP provided by the Department of Health Care Services to get free Narcan and fentanyl test strips.
Over the Counter
Naloxone Distribution Project
Over the Counter
Naloxone is also available over the counter at your local hospital, pharmacy including CVS and Walgreens, and even online retailers such as Amazon for around $40 - 50.
How Do I Use Naloxone?
Step One
Step Three
Step One
Recognize signs of an overdose:
- Slow or no breathing; gasping, gurgling or snoring breathing sounds
- Pale or clammy skin
- Gray or blue tint to lips and fingernails
- Slow, erratic, or no pulse
Step Three
Step Three
Step Three
Try to wake them up or get a response:
- Shout their name or shake their shoulders
- Do a sternum rub by rubbing your knuckles on their chest
- Tug on their ear lobe
- Pinch the soft skin on the back of their arm
Step Four
Step Four
Step Three
Give Naloxone:
- Put two fingers on the top and your thumb on the plunger
- Insert the tip gently into one nostril
- Press up firmly on the plunger
Step Five
Step Four
Step Five
Provide rescue breathing and/or place in recovery position
- Help lay them on their side
- Place their hand underneath their face
- Help place one knee over the other so they do not roll onto their stomach
Step Six
Step Four
Step Five
Continue to monitor and re-administer Naloxone as needed
- Wait two minutes after the first dose
- If they have not woken up or symptoms have not changed, repeat steps three through five
- Continue repeating this process with additional doses of Naloxone until emergency help arrives
This website uses cookies.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.