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What is 
Naloxone?

Naloxone is a lifesaving medication used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. For example, it can temporarily restore someone's breathing if they stopped because of opioid poisoning. It is an opioid antagonist which means it temporarily blocks the opioid receptors in the brain.  

How To Administer Naloxone

Learn where to get a free Naloxone kit, how to identify the signs of an opioid overdose and how to administer Naloxone. 

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01

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Where to find Naloxone

The majority of pharmacies (ie. Shoppers, Rexall) provide free Naloxone kits as part of the Ontario Government's plan to combat the opioid crisis. Walk into any local pharmacy and ask for a Naloxone or Narcan kit. The pharmacist may ask to see your health card and then present you with the option of either a nasal or intravenous kit. Both are just as effective however, the nasal kit is much easier to administer than the intravenous kit. 

02

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose can be similar to other drug overdoses. Even if you are unsure if opioids are involved, always administer Naloxone because most street drugs contain opioids. There is no negative effect of ingesting Naloxone even if it is not required. Here are the symptoms to look out for... 

  • Difficulty staying awake

  • Unconscious

  • Not breathing 

  • Small pupils 

  • Blue lips or nails 

  • Slurred speech 

  • Choking, gurgling or snoring 

  • Cold and clammy skin

Breathing
Lips
Unresponsive
Eyes 

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03

Call Paramedics

If you believe you or someone is having an opioid overdose, call 911 right away. Even if the victim is conscious and breathing, you must call 911 because their level of consciousness can change at any moment. Often, people using opioids are adamant on receiving help because they are afraid of facing jail time and will plead with you not to call 911. You must always call 911 no matter what, as that person's life is at risk. 

04

Narcan (Nasal Naloxone)

  1. Take out the two nasal devices and put on gloves 

  2. Plug one nostril and insert the device into the other

  3. Administer the first dose. You should hear a spraying sound if it is done correctly 

  4. If the victim's condition does not improve after 5 minutes, administer another dose

05

Intravenous Naloxone 

  1. Take out the two vials and two syringes 

  2. Remove the syringe from one of the packages and take off the tip

  3. Break the seal on the vial and insert the syringe into the vial (demonstrated in the video)

  4. Draw the full dose into the syringe 

  5. Insert the needle into the thigh or shoulder muscle and release the fluid (it can go through clothing)

  6. If the victim's condition does not improve after five minutes, administer a second dose

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