What is Naloxone? (Know The Dangers.com)
Naloxone Saves Lives
Naloxone, also known as Narcan®, is a medicine that can help someone during an opioid overdose. It comes as a nasal spray or needle injection. When someone takes more opioid than prescribed or without knowing, their breathing can slow down or stop. Naloxone works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain, which helps the person start breathing again and wake up.
After naloxone is used, the person who was revived might feel upset, confused, angry, or even violent. These are withdrawal symptoms because the opioids are leaving their brain. Stay calm and try to prevent them from using substances again.
Naloxone usually has few side effects. For people who depend on opioids, it might cause sweating, agitation, nausea, vomiting, fast heartbeat, and high blood pressure. These side effects are minor compared to the benefits of naloxone.
Naloxone is safe and only works for opioid overdoses. If you give it to someone who isn’t on opioids, it won’t hurt them. There is no harm if you use it on someone who is experiencing an overdose.
Always carry naloxone with you. Naloxone is available at pharmacies and some healthcare and nonprofit organizations in Minnesota. After naloxone is given to someone who has overdosed, it works for only 30 to 90 minutes. Always call 911 or seek medical help right away.
How To Use Naloxone
If you think someone is having an overdose, knowing how to use naloxone can be crucial:
- Check the Person: See if they are awake and breathing. Look for signs like not responding, very light or no breathing, and very small pupils.
- Call 911: Tell them there is a possible opioid overdose and give your exact location. Minnesota’s Good Samaritan law protects you when you help.
- Use Naloxone: Follow the instructions on the package. Naloxone comes as a nasal spray or an injection.
- Nasal Spray: Remove the cap, place the nozzle in one nostril, and press the plunger firmly. If needed, use another dose in the other nostril after a few minutes.
- Injection: Find a muscle in the upper arm or thigh. Remove the cap from the needle and inject naloxone into the muscle at a 90-degree angle. Push the plunger all the way down to give the full dose.
- After Giving Naloxone: Watch to see if they start breathing on their own. If they do, turn them onto their side to prevent choking. Stay with them until help arrives.
- Remember: Naloxone is important, but professional medical help is still needed right away. Even if someone is not happy about being revived, you did the right thing by helping them.
Anyone can use naloxone. Watch this video to see how it is done.
For Naloxone FAQs Visit: https://knowthedangers.com/naloxone/