Naloxone Saves Lives

Naloxone, sometimes referred to by the brand name Narcan, is a medication administered to people who may be experiencing an opioid overdose. Suspected opiate overdose signs are severe breathing problems and unresponsiveness. Naloxone reverses the overdose by attaching to the opiate receptors in the brain. Learn more at https://www.narcan.com/#how-to-get-narcan.

All 50 states currently have access laws that allow the medication to be readily available. In Connecticut, authorized prescribers include physicians, surgeons, PAs, APRNs, dentists, podiatrists, and Pharmacists who have been certified. Many programs providing treatment for substance use also have mechanisms in place to provide education and access (through prescriptions or kits) to Naloxone.

How to administer Naloxone

1. Lay the person on their back to receive a dose of Naloxone

2. Remove Naloxone from the box. Peel back the tab with the circle to open the Naloxone

3. Hold the Naloxone with your thumb on the bottom of the red plunger and your first and middle fingers on either side of the nozzle

4. Tilt the person’s head back and provide support under the neck with your hand. Gently insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril until your fingers on either side of the nozzle are against the bottom of the person’s nose.

5. Press the red plunger firmly to give the dose of Naloxone

6. Remove the Naloxone from their nose

What to do after Naloxone has been used

• Get emergency medical help right away

• Move the person on their side (recovery position) after giving Naloxone

• Watch the person closely

• If the person does not respond by waking up, to voice or touch, or breathing normally another dose may be given. Naloxone may be dosed every 2 to 3 minutes, if available

• Repeat Steps 2 through 6 using a new Naloxone to give another dose in the other nostril

• Put the used Naloxone back into its box

• Throw away (dispose of) the used Naloxone in a place that is away from children

Where do I get Naloxone?

• Primary care providers/family doctor can prescribe naloxone which can be filled at any CT pharmacy

• Pharmacies offer Narcan without a prescription for a co-pay through your insurance

Looking to get a larger group trained in Narcan Administration?

We offer free classes on Opioid Overdose Awareness and Naloxone Administration. Contact rflynn@bridgesmilford.org to schedule a class today.