WHAT IS NALOXONE ?
Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that temporarily reverses the effects of opioid overdose, allowing the person to breathe again while emergency services are on their way. It can be administered as:
- Nasal spray (Nyxoid)
- Preloaded syringe (Prenoxad)
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, meaning it blocks opioid receptors for 30-90 minutes, buying critical time in an emergency. Importantly, it cannot be misused to get high, and anyone can legally use Naloxone to treat a potentially fatal overdose.
QuIHN provides Naloxone free of charge—
No prescription, ID, or appointment needed. If you're interested in obtaining Naloxone or want more information on preventing overdose, contact us or visit your nearest QuIHN Needle and Syringe Program.
RECOGNISING AND RESPONDING TO OVERDOSE
If you or someone you care about uses drugs, knowing the signs of an overdose and how to respond can save a life. Opioid overdose is a medical emergency, but quick action with Naloxone, also known as Narcan, can reverse its effects and give someone time until further help arrives.
SIGNS OF OPIOID OVERDOSE
Overdoses often occur when opioids are combined with other substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines, but they can also happen with opioids alone. Recognising the symptoms of an overdose can be life-saving
Key signs to watch for:
- Tiny pupils
- Blue lips and fingertips (a sign of oxygen deprivation)
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Loud snoring (often mistaken as a sign the person is asleep, but it could be a warning)
- Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness—try calling their name or shaking them
- Pale, cold skin
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
WHAT TO DO IN AN OVERDOSE
In the event of an opioid overdose:
- Administer Naloxone immediately.
- Call emergency services (000) and stay with the person until help arrives.
- Continue to monitor breathing, and if needed, administer a second dose of Naloxone after 2-3 minutes if the person doesn’t improve.
- Naloxone is a vital first-aid tool that could save a life. Whether you're using drugs yourself or supporting someone who does, carrying Naloxone and understanding overdose risks is crucial.
Visit us at QuIHN for free Naloxone and more information about how to stay safe.