How to Use Naloxone
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Opioid overdoses are a growing public health crisis — but having the right tool and knowing how to use it can make the difference between life and death. Naloxone (often known by the brand name Narcan®) is a safe, effective antidote that can quickly reverse an opioid overdose when administered correctly. In this guide we'll walk you through how to use naloxone, when to use it, and what to do afterwards.
What is Naloxone?
Naloxone is a medication that blocks the effects of opioids and can restore normal breathing in someone whose breathing has slowed or stopped because of an opioid overdose. It is available in various formulations — nasal sprays, injectable kits, and auto-injectors — and many jurisdictions allow it to be carried by non-medical individuals for emergency use.
When Should You Use Naloxone?
You should use naloxone when you suspect somebody is experiencing an opioid overdose. Key signs include:
- Altered or no responsiveness
- Very slow or absent breathing (gasping or snoring sounds)
- Lips or nails turning blue or gray
- Very small “pin-point” pupils
Because naloxone only works on opioids, if you are unsure what drug has been used but see these signs, you should still consider using it — it will not harm someone who hasn't taken opioids.
Step-by-Step: Using the Nasal Spray Formulation
Most community naloxone kits contain a nasal spray device because it is simple to administer. Here's how to use it correctly:
- 1Carry Naloxone at all times:
Carrying Naloxone can make the difference between life and death in an emergency. A Nove carrying case makes being prepared easier than ever, ensuring your naloxone is protected and accessible when seconds count.
- 2Check responsiveness:
Shake the person gently, shout their name, rub your knuckles firmly on the breastbone (sternum). If they don't respond and are breathing slowly or not at all — treat it as an emergency.
- 3Call 911 immediately:
Provide the exact location. Do not wait for medical help before administering naloxone.
- 4Position the person:
Lay them on their back, tilt their head slightly back, and support their neck. This opens the airway.
- 5Prepare the device:
Remove the nasal spray device from its package. Do not test or prime the device.
- 6Insert nozzle:
Place your thumb on the bottom of the plunger and your first and middle fingers on either side of the nozzle. Insert the nozzle tip into one nostril, until your fingers are against the bottom of the person's nose.
- 7Administer the dose:
Press the plunger fully and give the dose. Remove the device after administration.
- 8Recovery position:
After administering, place the person in the 'recovery position' (on their side), and stay with them. Monitor their breathing and responsiveness.
- 9Second dose if needed:
If the person does not respond within 2-3 minutes, give a second dose (using a new device), and continue to wait for emergency services.
Other Forms of Naloxone: Injection & Auto-injector
In some settings (especially medical or harm reduction) naloxone may be available in injectable form or as an auto-injector. These require extra steps but follow the same principle: check responsiveness, call for help, administer naloxone, and monitor the person. For injection: draw up the fluid and inject into a muscle (shoulder or thigh) through clothing if needed.
Important Safety Tips & Things to Know
Naloxone's effects are temporary — the opioids may last longer in the body, so it's essential that the person still receives emergency medical care.
Even if you're unsure the person used opioids, administering naloxone can still be worth it: it won't harm someone not on opioids.
After naloxone, the person may go into withdrawal (sweating, nausea, shaking, irritability) — this is uncomfortable but not life-threatening.
Store naloxone at room temperature, away from light and extreme temperatures. Don't let it freeze.
Replace expired or used doses as soon as you can. Keep multiple doses available if you're in a high-risk environment.
Why Carrying Naloxone Matters
Every year thousands of lives are lost to preventable opioid overdoses. Community access to naloxone has been shown to save lives. According to the American Medical Association nearly 80% of opioid-death victims are outside a medical setting, meaning a bystander or loved one with naloxone can often be the first responder. By being prepared, you may be able to help someone when seconds count.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know may be around an overdose risk, get naloxone now. Visit your local pharmacy or community distribution program, ask for training, and keep it within reach. You can't predict when an opioid emergency will happen — but you can be ready for it.
Looking for free or low-cost naloxone in your area? Check our Naloxone Provider Directory to find access points near you.