Updated 7/13/2026
What Is Narcan?
Narcan is the brand name for naloxone, a medication that rapidly reverses the effects of opioids. It works by temporarily blocking opioids from attaching to receptors in the brain, restoring breathing in someone experiencing an overdose.
Narcan works against:
- Fentanyl
- Heroin
- Oxycodone (OxyContin®)
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin®)
- Morphine
- Codeine
- Methadone
- Other prescription and illicit opioids
Narcan does not reverse overdoses caused solely by cocaine, methamphetamine, alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other non-opioid drugs, although it should still be given if opioid involvement is suspected because fentanyl is frequently mixed into other illicit drugs.
Why Everyone Should Carry Narcan
Many people assume Narcan is only for first responders or people with opioid addiction. In reality, anyone can encounter an overdose.
Examples include:
- A teenager who unknowingly takes a counterfeit pill containing fentanyl
- An older adult who accidentally takes too much prescription pain medication
- A friend who mixes opioids with alcohol or sedatives
- Someone collapsing in a public restroom, parking lot, or restaurant
- A family member recovering from opioid addiction who relapses
Since fentanyl and synthetic opioid contamination has become widespread in counterfeit pills and street drugs, carrying Narcan has become an important public health measure.
What Are the Signs of an Opioid Overdose?
Someone experiencing an opioid overdose may:
- Be difficult or impossible to wake up
- Stop breathing or breathe very slowly
- Have tiny “pinpoint” pupils
- Have blue, gray, or purple lips or fingernails
- Make choking, snoring, or gurgling sounds
- Have cold, clammy skin
- Become limp or unresponsive
If you’re unsure whether it’s an overdose, give Narcan anyway. Naloxone is extremely safe and is unlikely to harm someone who has not taken opioids.
What Should You Do During an Opioid Overdose?
If you suspect an opioid overdose:
1. Call 911 immediately.
Emergency medical care is still necessary even if Narcan works.
2. Administer Narcan.
Insert the nozzle into one nostril and firmly press the plunger.
3. Try to wake the person.
Call their name. Rub your knuckles firmly on their breastbone (sternum rub).
4. Support breathing.
If trained, provide rescue breathing or CPR if necessary.
5. Place them in the recovery position.
Turn them onto their side to help prevent choking.
6. Give a second dose if needed.
If there’s no response after 2–3 minutes, administer another dose if available. Stay with the person until emergency responders arrive.
How to Use Narcan Nasal Spray
Using Narcan takes only seconds.
Peel
Remove the device from the package.
Remove the device from the package.
Place
Insert the tip into one nostril until your fingers touch the person’s nose.
Insert the tip into one nostril until your fingers touch the person’s nose.
Press
Firmly press the plunger to release the medication.
Firmly press the plunger to release the medication.
Each Narcan device contains only one dose.
Is Narcan Safe?
Yes. Narcan has been used safely by healthcare professionals and emergency responders for decades.
It:
- Cannot produce a “high”
- Is not addictive
- Has no effect on someone who has not taken opioids
- Is safe for children and adults during suspected opioid overdose
Someone who regularly uses opioids may experience withdrawal symptoms after receiving naloxone, including nausea, sweating, vomiting, body aches, agitation, or diarrhea. While unpleasant, these symptoms are generally not life-threatening and are far less dangerous than an untreated overdose.
Where Can You Get Narcan?
Narcan is now available over the counter throughout the United States. You can purchase it at many:
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Walmart
- Rite Aid
- Grocery pharmacies
- Independent pharmacies
- Online retailers
Many community organizations, health departments, and harm reduction programs also distribute free naloxone kits. Some insurance plans may also cover naloxone products.
Narcan Doesn’t Replace Medical Care
Narcan usually works within minutes, but its effects typically last 30 to 90 minutes. Many opioids, including fentanyl, can remain in the body much longer. Someone can stop breathing again after Narcan wears off, which is why calling 911 is essential every time.
Treatment for Opioid Addiction
Surviving an overdose is only the beginning. An overdose often signals that professional treatment is urgently needed. At Hanley Center, we provide comprehensive treatment for opioid use disorder, including:
- Medical detoxification
- Residential addiction treatment
- Mental health treatment for co-occurring disorders
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment when clinically appropriate
- Long-term recovery planning
Recovery is possible, and seeking help early can save lives. Call (561) 841-1033 to speak confidentially with our admissions team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Narcan hurt someone who isn’t overdosing?
No. Naloxone is considered very safe and generally has no effect on someone who has not taken opioids.
How long does Narcan take to work?
Most people begin responding within two to three minutes.
Do I still need to call 911 after giving Narcan?
Yes. Narcan’s effects are temporary, and emergency medical evaluation is always necessary.
Can Narcan reverse a fentanyl overdose?
Yes. Naloxone is effective against fentanyl overdoses, although multiple doses may sometimes be required because fentanyl is extremely potent.
References
-
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Stop Overdose.
https://www.cdc.gov/stop-overdose/ - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Signs of an Opioid Overdose.
https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/signs-symptoms/index.html - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Naloxone.
https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/treatment/overdose-prevention/naloxone - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA Approves First Over-the-Counter Naloxone Nasal Spray.
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-over-counter-naloxone-nasal-spray - National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Naloxone DrugFacts.
https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/naloxone - National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Drug Overdose Death Rates.
https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Opioid Overdose Prevention.
https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Stop Overdose.
Hanley Center is a well-known care provider offering a range of treatment programs targeting the recovery from substance use, mental health issues, and beyond. Our primary mission is to provide a clear path to a life of healing and restoration. We offer renowned clinical care for mental illnesses and have the compassion and professional expertise to guide you toward lasting wellness. For information on our programs, call us today: (561) 841-1033.
