Medications to Reverse Overdose
Naloxone 101
Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids- including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications and is an appropriate response for polysubstance and fentanyl-involved overdoses. Naloxone reverses the effects of an opioid overdose then allows the individual to breathe normally once administered. Depending on the medication form, naloxone can be injected in the muscle (intramuscular) and/or sprayed into the nose (intranasal).
Naloxone has no potential for abuse.
Naloxone can be used in life-threatening opioid overdose circumstances in pregnant women.
Multiple doses of naloxone may be required when the overdose results from ingestion of large amounts of opioids or potent opioids such as fentanyl, carfentanil, or other opioid analogs.
Because naloxone has a relatively short duration of effect, overdose symptoms may return. Therefore, it is essential to call 911 and get the person to an emergency department as quickly as possible, even if the person revives after the initial dose of naloxone and seems to feel better.
- Syringe form (Intramuscular or IM): Injecting into the muscle of the upper thigh or upper arm.
- Nasal spray form (Intranasal or IN): Spraying the medication into the nose.
- Auto Injector Form (Intramuscular or IM): A pre-filled dose of naloxone that is administered by retractable needle. Medication is administered when device is pressed against a person’s upper leg. The device also has a voice recording that tells you step by step how to administer the medication.
Naloxone might also be called these brand names: Narcan, Evzio, Kloxxado, ReVive
Nasal Spray
Prefilled devices that spray medication into the nose.
How to Use Naloxone Nasal Spray
Injectable Medication (solution) given by injection into a muscle or under the skin.
Naloxone products approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are an important tool to reverse overdose in health care and community settings. Naloxone is a lifesaving emergency treatment that reverses opioid overdose. It is a medicine with no abuse potential, and it is not a controlled substance. It can also be administered by individuals with or without medical training to help reduce opioid overdose deaths.
Arizona Good Samaritan Law
Arizona Revised Statutes
ARS 13-3423. Medical assistance requests; prohibited prosecution of Good Samaritans; mitigating factor; definitions
A. A person who, in good faith, seeks medical assistance for someone experiencing a drug-related overdose may not be charged or prosecuted for the possession or use of a controlled substance or drug paraphernalia or a preparatory offense if the evidence for the violation was gained as a result of the person's seeking medical assistance.
B. A person who experiences a drug-related overdose, who is in need of medical assistance and for whom medical assistance is sought pursuant to subsection A of this section may not be charged or prosecuted for the possession or use of a controlled substance or drug paraphernalia if the evidence for the violation was gained as a result of the person's overdose and need for medical assistance.
Naloxone Will Not Harm Someone Who Does Not Have Opioids in Their System.
If someone is having a medical emergency other than an opioid overdose – such as a diabetic coma or cardiac arrest – giving them naloxone will generally not have any effect or cause them additional harm.
Naloxone can be administered to people of all ages, so it can also be used for suspected overdose in infants, children, and the elderly.
Who should carry naloxone?
If you or someone you know is at increased risk for opioid overdose, especially those struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD), you should carry naloxone and keep it at home. People who are taking high-dose opioid medications (greater or equal to 50 morphine milligram equivalents per day) prescribed by a doctor, people who use opioids and benzodiazepines together, and people who use illicit opioids like heroin should all carry naloxone. Because you can’t use naloxone on yourself, let others know you have it in case you experience an opioid overdose.
Carrying naloxone is no different than carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (commonly known by the brand name EpiPen) for someone with allergies. It simply provides an extra layer of protection for those at a higher risk for overdose.
How to Obtain Naloxone
Pharmacy pick-up:
- The Director of Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) issued a standing order on November 11, 2017 that allows any Arizona-licensed pharmacist to dispense one of the three forms of naloxone to any individual without a prescription. Arizonans can pick up naloxone at all pharmacy locations across the state.
Free naloxone pick-up.
- Coconino County
- Pima County
- Or visit Sonoran prevention works to find an organization near you.
Request free Naloxone by mail
