When in doubt, give Narcan
Download our new list of pharmacies with Narcan, including the costs and insurance coverage options.
How to Use Narcan
Source: American Medical Association
Narcan is an FDA-approved medication that is safe and effective for all ages. Narcan is available with or without a prescription from pharmacies. Some pharmacies, including Walgreens, CVS, and Rite-Aid have free Narcan programs.
Be sure to call 911 in addition to giving Narcan. Administering Narcan is protected by Good Samaritan Laws, so you do not need to worry about prosecution or other legal liabilities.
If you suspect someone is suffering from opioid poisoning or overdose, give Narcan immediately and then call 911.
Narcan has no effect if no opioids are present
If Narcan is given to someone who has not taken opioids, it will have no effect, which underscores its safety profile.
Some may feel concerned that the increased availability of naloxone to reverse opioid overdoses may promote high-risk drug use among adolescents as the perception of risk is lowered. However, research does not support this line of thinking. On the contrary, a recent study conducted by researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found no increase in the rate of teen heroin or injection drug use and confirmed naloxone’s important role in harm reduction.