The opioid crisis continues to impact communities nationwide, making tools like Narcan (naloxone) more critical than ever. This FDA-approved medication is designed to rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, potentially saving lives in critical moments. At Headwaters, we believe that education and preparedness are key components of combating addiction and overdose. Here’s what you need to know about Narcan and how to use it effectively.
What Is Narcan?
Narcan is a brand name for naloxone, a medication that blocks the effects of opioids on the brain. It works by displacing opioids from their receptors, reversing symptoms such as respiratory depression, sedation, and unconsciousness caused by an overdose. Narcan is available as a nasal spray or injectable solution and can be administered by anyone, even without medical training, making it an invaluable tool in emergencies.
When to Use Narcan
Narcan should be administered if you suspect someone is experiencing an opioid overdose. Common signs of an opioid overdose include:
- Unresponsiveness: The individual is difficult or impossible to wake.
- Slow or Stopped Breathing: Breathing may be shallow, slow, or absent.
- Pale or Bluish Skin: Lips and fingertips may appear discolored due to lack of oxygen.
- Pinpoint Pupils: Extremely small pupils are a telltale sign of opioid use.
- Gurgling or Raspy Breathing: This may indicate that the person’s heart has slowed and they have problems breathing.
Even if you’re unsure whether the individual is experiencing an opioid overdose, administering Narcan is safe and could save a life. Narcan will not harm someone if opioids are not present in their system.
How to Administer Narcan
For Narcan Nasal Spray:
- Assess the Situation: Check for signs of overdose and call 911 immediately.
- Administer the Spray: Insert the nozzle into one nostril until your fingers are against the nose. Press the plunger firmly to release the dose.
- Recovery Position: Lay the individual on their side, position their knee to stop them from rolling onto their stomach, and position their hand to support their head.
- Monitor and Repeat if Necessary: If there is no response after 2-3 minutes, administer a second dose in the other nostril. Continue to monitor the person until emergency responders arrive.
What to Do After Administering Narcan
- Call 911: Even if the person wakes up, medical attention is essential to ensure their safety. Narcan’s effects are temporary. The individual may slip back into an overdose once the medication wears off.
- Stay with the Individual: Keep the person awake and breathing, if possible. Roll them onto their side in the Recovery Position to prevent choking in case of vomiting.
- Provide Comfort and Reassurance: The individual may feel disoriented or agitated after being revived. Speak calmly and ensure them that help is on the way.
Where to Get Narcan
Narcan is available without a prescription in many states, and it can often be obtained at pharmacies or through community organizations. Many health departments and harm reduction programs also distribute Narcan for free. Hanley Foundation has free Narcan cabinets throughout Florida; click here to find cabinet locations. Keeping Narcan accessible in your home, workplace, or community can save lives in an emergency.
Empowering the Community to Act
At Headwaters, we are committed to equipping individuals and families with the knowledge and tools to prevent overdose deaths. Narcan is a vital resource, but it’s just one part of the larger fight against opioid addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, professional support is key to lasting recovery.
Contact Us for Help
Overdose prevention begins with education, preparedness, and compassionate care. Reach out to Headwaters today to learn more about addiction treatment, Narcan training, and how we can help you or your loved one achieve a brighter, healthier future. Together, we can make a difference.
Hanley Foundation’s Headwaters is a non-profit addiction treatment program for executives, public figures, other affluent individuals, and their loved ones. Headwaters offers leading-edge, personalized clinical care for mental health and substance use disorders, and our professional and compassionate staff can help you achieve holistic wellness. To start your healing journey, call 561-270-1753 today.
