Narcan® Nasal Spray can help people who have overdosed on opioid drugs. Opioid drugs include prescription pain medicines like oxycodone, morphine, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and methadone, and illegal drugs like heroin.
Learn about the signs of an opioid overdose and review these instructions or the directions that come with the Narcan® Nasal Spray before you need to use it. That way you will be ready to give the medicine if someone needs it. Giving someone who has overdosed Narcan® Nasal Spray quickly and getting them medical care right away could save their life.
If you think someone has overdosed on opioids:
Step 1. Call 911 or have someone else call right away.
Step 2. Check the person:
Step 3. If the person doesn't wake up fully or has signs of an opioid overdose, give the Narcan® Nasal Spray:
Lay the person on their back.
Remove the nozzle from the person's nostril after giving the dose.
Step 4. Continue care until the ambulance arrives:
Reminders
Can people have a bad reaction to Narcan® Nasal Spray? If someone has taken opioids a lot, Narcan® Nasal Spray can cause sudden withdrawal symptoms (for example, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and trembling). These symptoms may be uncomfortable but can be managed. The risk of dying from an opioid overdose is much higher than having a bad reaction to Narcan® Nasal Spray.
How should I store Narcan®? Store Narcan® Nasal Spray where you can get it quickly. Choose a dry place that doesn't get too hot or too cold (never keep it in a bathroom or in a car). Put the medicine in a locked container where young children can't reach it.
Will Narcan® Nasal Spray work if the person is not breathing? Yes, Narcan® Nasal Spray will work and can be given if a person is not breathing.