Resources

How to Administer Naloxone
Step 1: CHECK for an overdose
  • Signs of an overdose include the person not waking up, being very sleepy, or not breathing well
  • Yell “Wake up!”
  • Shake them gently
  • If the person does not wake up, move to Step 2
Step 2: GIVE dose in the nose
  • Hold the nasal spray with your thumb on the bottom of the plunger.
  • Insert the nozzle into either nostril.
  • Press the plunger firmly to administer the dose.
  • Note: Our Carry Case holds only 1 nasal spray device, which contains 1 dose of naloxone
Step 3: CALL 911
  • Call 911 immediately after giving the dose
Step 4: WATCH for a response
  • Wait 2–3 minutes for the medication to take effect.
  • If the person wakes up, proceed to Step 5
  • If the person doesn’t wake up after one dose, monitor closely while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
Step 5: STAY until help arives 
  • Stay with the person until emergency services arrive, even if they wake up
  • Naloxone’s effects may wear off, so be prepared to assist until help arrives

Additional Overdose Prevention and Naloxone Resources

Recognizing and Responding to an Overdose

Overdoses can happen unexpectedly, and knowing the signs could save a life:

  • CDC Overdose Prevention –Practical information on recognizing opioid overdose signs and how to respond effectively.
  • Stop Overdose – A comprehensive guide on preventing opioid overdoses, offering detailed tips and steps for responding.

How to Use Naloxone Effectively

Familiarizing yourself with how to use Naloxone can be lifesaving:

  • Narcan Guide – A website guide with videos and PDFs providing step-by-step instructions for using Narcan nasal spray.
  • Naloxone Training Videos – Visual resources on how to use Naloxone in an emergency.Learn More About Naloxone

For additional information on Naloxone and opioid overdose prevention, explore:

  • Narcan.com Resources – A collection of helpful resources on Naloxone, its usage, and the broader impact of opioid overdose prevention.

Where can I get Naloxone?

You can purchase Naloxone from major retailers:

  • Amazon
  • Walgreens
  • CVS Pharmacy
  • Walmart

You can access free or reduced-cost Naloxone through national and community-based organizations:

  • Harm Reduction Near Me – Offers a Naloxone Finder map to help you locate free Naloxone and other harm reduction resources in your community.
  • NEXT Distro Naloxone Resources – Provides free Naloxone via mail to people in need, especially those who use drugs or have limited access to local resources.
  • Naloxone Exchange (nXg) – A service providing Naloxone at a lower cost through online mail-order.

Addiction & Opioid Use Disorder Resources:

SAMHSA’s 24-hour National Helpline

  • Call: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
  • Text: 435748 (HELP4U)
  • A confidential, free, 24/7 information service providing referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations for those seeking help with substance use disorders and mental health issues.

Other Resources Include:

  • The North America Syringe Exchange Network (NASEN) – Provides access to sterile syringes and safe injection equipment for harm reduction. They also offer information on syringe exchange programs (SEPs) across the U.S.
  • FindTreatment.gov – A comprehensive directory to find treatment centers near you for substance use disorder, addiction treatment, mental health services, and more. It also offers customizable search filters to find appropriate care.
  • Google Recover Together – Helps you find safe drug takeback locations in your community to properly dispose of unused or expired medications, preventing misuse and environmental harm.
  • Shatterproof – A national nonprofit organization dedicated to reversing the addiction crisis through research, policy advocacy, and support services. They offer resources for families and individuals affected by addiction, including education and community-based tools.
  • Narcotics Anonymous (NA) – An international, community-based organization offering support groups for individuals recovering from substance use. Meetings are free and available both in person and online.
  • Partnership to End Addiction – This resource provides guidance and support for families dealing with addiction. They offer free educational materials, access to counseling, and advice on supporting loved ones in recovery.
  • The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – NIDA offers extensive research, education, and resources for understanding addiction, substance use disorder, and treatment options. They provide scientific findings and treatment guidelines for both healthcare providers and individuals.