Understanding Healthcare

Giving Naloxone Nasal Spray: General Info

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Naloxone (Narcan) is a medicine that reverses the effects of an opioid emergency. Taking too much of an
opioid can slow or stop your breathing. If naloxone is given soon enough, it may save a life. It is available
at many pharmacies without a prescription.

How do you give naloxone nasal spray?

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1. Check to see if the person is responsive.

Look for a response when you ask questions or shake the person.

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2. Look for signs of an opioid emergency.

These include:

  • Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing.

  • Blue or grayish lips or fingertips.

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3. Put the person on their back.

Tilt their head back.

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4. Put the nasal spray tip in one nostril.

Push firmly on the plunger.

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5. Call 911 , or ask someone else to call.

  • Follow the 911 operator's directions.

  • If the person doesn't respond after 2 to 3 minutes, give another dose in the other nostril.

  • Naloxone spray can't be reused. A new nasal spray is needed for a second dose.

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6. Reposition the person, and wait for help.

  • When the person starts breathing, lay them on their left side with their right knee bent and the
    left arm above their head.

  • Put their right hand under their head to support it.

  • Stay with the person until help arrives.

Current as of: November 15, 2023

               Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of
this information.

© 2006-2026 Healthwise, Incorporated.
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