Naloxone

Naloxone is a prescription medication that can temporarily reverse opioid overdose and can save lives. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that reverses the depression of the central nervous and respiratory systems after an overdose of prescription opioids or heroin. This medication can quickly be administered by several easy-to-use devices. Family members, caregivers, and emergency responders should be trained to administer naloxone to populations at risk for opioid overdose. Below is an overview of the available formulations:

Intranasal Naloxone: Narcan® Nasal Spray 4mg

This naloxone device is a prepackaged, ready-to-use, plastic unit that is given up the nose. The dose can be repeated every 2-3 minutes until initial response.

• How to Use the VA Intranasal Naloxone Kit Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  Training Video
• Narcan® Quick Start Guide Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  [PDF - 677 KB]

Naloxone Intramuscular Injection: Prefilled Syringe or Vial

Naloxone Intramuscular (IM) injection may come in a prefilled syringe or a vial. 1ml of naloxone can be injected into a large muscle such as the upper arm or thigh at a 90-degree angle. The dose can be repeated every 2-3 minutes until initial response.

• How to Use the VA Intramuscular Naloxone Kit Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov 
• Naloxone Access: A Practical Guideline for Pharmacists Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  [PDF - 2.7 MB]