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Narcan is a brand name for naloxone nasal spray, an emergency medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. It works against opioids such as fentanyl, heroin, morphine, and oxycodone. Narcan can restore breathing when an opioid overdose causes respiratory depression. The 4 mg Narcan nasal spray is available over the counter in the United States.
read more about narcan ...Narcan contains naloxone, an opioid antagonist that attaches to opioid receptors and displaces opioid drugs. This action can reverse opioid-induced respiratory depression and help restore normal breathing. Narcan does not reverse overdoses caused solely by substances that are not opioids. Its effects can wear off before the opioid leaves the body, making continued observation and emergency treatment necessary.
Narcan should be administered immediately when an opioid overdose is suspected. Warning signs include unresponsiveness, very slow or absent breathing, unusual gurgling sounds, and pinpoint pupils. Do not delay treatment while identifying the specific opioid involved. Call emergency services, administer Narcan, and follow instructions for rescue breathing or cardiopulmonary resuscitation when appropriate. Stay with the person until emergency responders arrive.
The 4 mg Narcan nasal spray is a single-use device that delivers one dose into a nostril. It does not require assembly or priming. Administer one spray according to the package instructions and seek emergency assistance immediately. When the person does not respond or breathing problems return, administer another dose using a new device every two to three minutes as directed. Alternate nostrils for subsequent doses.
Narcan can precipitate sudden opioid withdrawal in people who are physically dependent on opioids. Symptoms can include sweating, shaking, nausea, vomiting, agitation, and increased heart rate. Breathing problems can return after naloxone wears off, particularly with longer-acting opioids. Repeated doses and medical treatment may be necessary. Narcan is an emergency overdose reversal medication, not an ongoing treatment for opioid use disorder.
Yes. Narcan can reverse respiratory depression caused by fentanyl. Multiple doses may be needed, and emergency medical assistance is necessary even when breathing improves.
Yes. The 4 mg Narcan nasal spray is approved for over-the-counter sale in the United States. Availability varies by pharmacy, retailer, and community distribution program.
Narcan can begin reversing opioid-related breathing problems within minutes. A person who does not respond or whose breathing worsens again may need another dose and emergency resuscitation.
Yes. Naloxone can cause sudden withdrawal symptoms in someone physically dependent on opioids. This risk should not delay administering Narcan during a suspected overdose.
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