NALOXONE
What Is Naloxone?
- Naloxone, commonly referred to as Narcan, is a medicine that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose
- It works by temporarily restoring normal breathing to a person who has slowed or stopped breathing due to an opioid overdose
- There are three forms of naloxone: nasal spray, injection, auto-injection. The most common is nasal spray. If you would like to learn more about the three different forms please visit SAMSHA
Naloxone can be given to all ages, including infants and older adults - this includes children who have accidentally ingested an opioid
How To Know If Someone Is Experiencing An Overdose
- Small or "pinpoint" pupils
- Falling asleep or loss of consciousness and unable to wake even with direct stimulus
- Limp body
- Slow, shallow breathing or breathing that sounds like a rattle
- Stopped breathing
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Pale or bluish/grey skin
- Blue or purple lips or nails
If you are still unsure if it's an opioid overdose, it is okay to give anyway. Naloxone will NOT harm anyone who does not have opioids in their system
Source: SAMHSA
What To Do If You Think Someone Has Overdosed On Opioids…
- Call 911 immediately. Naloxone is a temporary solution and the individual will still need professional, emergency medical care. Tell the operator your location and that you are with a person who is not breathing and/or you think is overdosing. Tell them if you have Narcan and they can help walk you through giving the doses if needed.
North Carolina's Good Samaritan Law means you WILL NOT GET IN TROUBLE for seeking medical assistance in drug related overdoses.
https://www.ncleg.net/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/PDF/BySection/Chapter_18B/GS_18B-302.2.pdf
- Give naloxone as quickly as possible, if available. Do not wait for emergency workers to arrive before giving naloxone. 3. Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
- Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
- Stay with the person until emergency workers arrive.
- Naloxone is a temporary treatment. More than one dose might be needed under some circumstances, especially if an overdose event involves illicitly manufactured fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances
How Much Does Naloxone Cost?
You can get Naloxone FREE at the Cleveland County Health Department, if you need a kit, they are available for pick up through the pharmacy drive thru. You can also find Naloxone for purchases at most pharmacies and insurance may cover the cost.
If you or a loved one are suffering from substance use, help is available. Click the help button below to find local resources.