Naloxone
Pronounced
"nal-OX-one"
Common brand names:
Narcan
Uses
Naloxone is used for the emergency treatment of known or suspected opioid overdose. Serious opioid overdose symptoms may include unusual sleepiness, unusual difficulty waking up, or breathing problems (ranging from slow/shallow breathing to no breathing). Other symptoms of overdose may include very small "pinpoint" pupils, slow heartbeat, or low blood pressure. If someone has serious overdose symptoms but you are not sure if the symptoms are due to opioid overdose, give naloxone right away anyway, since lasting slow/shallow breathing may cause permanent damage to the brain or death. Since symptoms of opioid overdose may return after treatment, be sure to get medical help right away after giving the first dose of naloxone.
This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid antagonists. It works by blocking the effects of the opioid in the brain.
How to Use This Medication
If your doctor has prescribed this medication, read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist when you get this medication and each time you get a refill. If you are using the over-the-counter product, read and follow all directions on the product package before using this medication. Be sure to keep this medication handy in case it is needed. Learn ahead of time how to properly give this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Close family and household members should know the symptoms of an opioid overdose and be instructed on how to give naloxone if needed. Opioid overdose should be treated right away to prevent serious effects (such as brain damage). See also Uses section.
Remove the naloxone spray from the package only when you are ready to use it. Lay the person on their back. Tilt the person's head back and support their neck with your hand. Use your other hand to gently insert the tip of the spray nozzle into one nostril, then firmly press the plunger to give the dose. Some brands may direct you to move the person onto their side after removing the spray nozzle from the nostril. Follow the directions for your brand carefully.
The effects of this medication are rapid but not long lasting. After giving naloxone, get medical help right away, even if the person wakes up. If symptoms return after giving the spray, give another dose in the other nostril every 2 to 3 minutes, changing nostrils with each dose. Each spray contains only one dose and cannot be reused. Continue to closely watch the person until emergency help comes. Tell the health care professional that you have given naloxone spray.
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