Narcan® (naloxone) is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose in minutes. It blocks opioids from attaching to brain receptors and restores normal breathing. In the middle of the opioid crisis, Narcan has become one of the most important tools in preventing fatal overdoses and gives people a second chance at life.
Whether you’re in treatment, supporting someone who is, or simply want to be prepared, knowing what Narcan is, and how and when to use it, can save a life.
When is Narcan Used?
Narcan is used when someone is overdosing on opioids. Opioids slow down breathing and, in high doses, can stop breathing altogether. Narcan works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain and temporarily reverses the effect.
It works for overdoses caused by:
- Prescription painkillers (e.g., oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine)
- Heroin
- Fentanyl and fentanyl-laced drugs (extremely potent, fast-acting and often deadly)
- Other opioids, including methadone and buprenorphine
Please note, Narcan is not effective against overdoses caused by only non-opioids such as methamphetamine (meth), cocaine, benzodiazepines (like Xanax), or alcohol. But because opioids are so often mixed in, administer Narcan if an opioid overdose is suspected.
How is Narcan Given?
Narcan comes int two main forms:
1. Nasal Spray (most common)
- Brand name: Narcan® Nasal Spray
- Comes in a single-use, prefilled device
- Insert into a nostril and press the plunger
- Fast-acting and easy to use–no medical training required
2. Injectable Form
- Used mostly by first responders or medical staff
- Given intramuscularly (into the thigh, arm, or buttocks)
- Requires more training and preparation than the spray
Both forms work within 2-3 minutes. Sometimes, more than one dose is needed, especially with fentanyl. Always call 911 as Narcan wears off in 30 to 90 minutes, and overdose symptoms can return once it does.
How to Recognize an Opioid Overdose
Act fast if you see:
- Slow, shallow, or no breathing
- Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
- Limp body
- Blue lips or fingertips
- Gurgling or choking sounds
- Tiny or “pinpoint” pupils
Call 911 and then give Narcan.
What You Should Know About Narcan
- It’s safe: Narcan has no potential for misuse or addiction and it is safe to give even if you’re unsure opioids are involved.
- It’s easy to carry and store: No refrigeration is needed and it is small enough to carry anywhere.
- It’s legal to carry in most states: Most states allow you to get Narcan without a personal prescription.
- It’s available: Pharmacies, health departments and many treatment centers (including Pinnacle) provide free Narcan and training.
Narcan and Recovery
Narcan saves lives, but it doesn’t treat opioid addiction. For many, surviving an overdose and being revived with Narcan is the turning point that leads to seeking help and starting recovery.
At Pinnacle Treatment Centers, we offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment for opioid addiction, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT/MOUD) and therapy and recovery support designed to help people not just survive, but heal and rebuild their lives.
Learn More and Stay Prepared
Overdose can happen to anyone using opioids, whether prescribed or illicit. Knowing the signs and how and when to use Narcan could make the difference between life and death.
If you want Narcan training or resources near you, contact your local Pinnacle Treatment Center. Together, we can prevent overdose deaths and build lasting recovery.
Narcan doesn’t fix addiction, but it buys time, and time saves lives. Every kit in a pocket, a purse, or a glove compartment is a second chance waiting to happen.
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