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Narcan and Why It Matters

Narcan Nasal Spray

Narcan and Why it Matters is fully explained here. What it is, What it can Reverse, How to Use, Possible Reactions and Where to get it. 

NARCAN (NALOXONE): Life Saving Overdose Reversal Information

Narcan® (naloxone) is a fast-acting medication that reverses the life-threatening effects of an opioid overdose. It restores normal breathing within minutes and can be safely used by anyone, even without medical training. It is an opioid antagonist designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose symptoms. It is safe, non-addictive, and widely recommended for households, workplaces, schools, and community organizations. 

Heartstart Heroes is a community outreach participant for Narcan. I am currently working on creating distribution points such as free access vending machines or boxes of some type. I have Narcan available to handout in Texas to any and everyone which is provided in cooperation with UT Health San Antonio and the Be Well Texas initiative and Naloxone Texas Program.

Download a Special Info Sheet about Narcan being Free & Why

Common Opioids Narcan can Reverse

• Fentanyl
• Heroin
• Oxycodone & Hydrocodone
• Morphine
• Prescription pain medications

Why Narcan Matters


Opioid overdoses can occur unexpectedly, even when medications are taken as prescribed. Narcan provides a critical window of time for emergency responders to arrive and save a life.

Narcan Features and Details

Signs of an Opioid Overdose

• Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
• Blue or gray lips, fingertips, or skin
• Pinpoint pupils
• Unresponsiveness
• Gurgling or choking sounds
• Limp body or inability to wake up
If you suspect an overdose, use Narcan immediately. It cannot harm someone who is not overdosing.

How to Use Narcan Nasal Spray

  1. Check responsiveness by calling the person's name and shaking them gently.
  2. Call 911 immediately.
  3. Tilt the person's head back and support the neck.
  4. Insert the nozzle into one nostril.
  5. Press the plunger firmly to release the dose.
  6. Wait 2–3 minutes. If breathing does not improve, administer a second dose.
  7. Stay with the person until emergency help arrives.

Possible Reactions After Narcan

Narcan may cause temporary withdrawal symptoms in people who regularly use opioids. These symptoms are uncomfortable but not dangerous.

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sweating
  • Shaking
  • Irritability or confusion
  • Rapid heartbeat

Where to Get Narcan

Narcan is widely accessible across the United States.

  • Pharmacies (often without a prescription)
  • Community health centers
  • Harm-reduction organizations
  • Public health departments
  • Schools, libraries, and workplaces

Who Should Carry Narcan?

  • People taking prescription opioids
  • Friends or family of someone using opioids
  • Teachers, coaches, and school staff
  • First responders
  • Community organizations
  • Anyone who wants to be prepared

Having Narcan is like having a fire extinguisher — you hope you never need it, but it can save a life.

Heartstart Heroes CPR & First Aid - Opioid Overdose Prevention Resources