Naloxone: A Life-Saving Medication That Reverses Opioid Overdose

Naloxone is a safe and effective medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save lives. Opioids include substances such as heroin, fentanyl, and prescription pain medications like oxycodone. Naloxone works by blocking the effects of opioids on the brain and restoring normal breathing.

Importantly, naloxone only works on opioid overdoses. It has no effect if opioids are not present in the body, which makes it safe to use even when you are unsure what substance someone has taken.

Recognizing the Signs of an Opioid Overdose

An opioid overdose is a medical emergency. Common signs include:

• Unresponsiveness or inability to wake the person

• Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing

• Blue, gray, or pale lips and fingernails

• Choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds

• Cold or clammy skin

Before giving naloxone, try to check if the person responds:

• Call their name loudly

• Rub your knuckles firmly on the center of their chest (sternum rub)

If there is no response, treat the situation as an overdose emergency.

What to Do in Case of an Overdose

1. Call 911 immediately and tell them someone is not breathing or is unresponsive.

2. Give naloxone right away. Do not delay.

3. Rescue breathing or CPR:

• Tilt the person’s head back

• Pinch the nose and give one breath every 5 seconds

How to Use Naloxone Nasal Spray

Naloxone nasal spray is simple to use:

• Remove the device from the package

• Place the tip into one nostril

• Press the plunger firmly to release the dose

There is no need to assemble the device. If the person does not respond within 2 minutes, give a second dose using a new device, preferably in the other nostril.

After Giving Naloxone

• Stay with the person until medical help arrives

• Naloxone usually works for 30 to 90 minutes

• When naloxone wears off, overdose symptoms can return

• The person may experience withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, agitation, or body aches

Do not give the person more opioids to reduce withdrawal symptoms, as this increases the risk of another overdose.

Important Safety Notes

• Naloxone cannot be abused and does not cause addiction

• It is safe to give naloxone even if you are not sure an overdose is opioid-related

• Teach others where naloxone is stored and how to use it

Getting Naloxone and Support in NYC

Naloxone is widely available for free in New York City. To find locations:

• Call 311

• Visit nyc.gov/naloxone

For free, confidential support related to substance use, mental health, or crisis situations:

• Call or text 988

• Visit nyc.gov/988

Support is available 24/7 in more than 200 languages.