How to administer narcan® nasal spray
Remember these important actions in case of a suspected opioid emergency.
Do not test the Narcan® before administering. Each device contains one dose.
Step 1
Peel back the package to remove the device.
Step 2
Hold the device with your thumb on the bottom of the plunger and two fingers on either side of the nozzle.
Step 3
Tilt the person’s head back and provide support under the neck with your hand.
Step 4
Gently insert the tip of the nozzle into either nostril until your fingers touch the bottom of the person’s nose.
Step 5
Press the plunger firmly to give the dose of Narcan® Nasal Spray. Remove the Narcan® Nasal spray from the nostril after giving the dose.
Step 6
Wait and watch the person closely. If the person does not respond in 2-minutes, repeat the steps and give the second dose of Narcan® Nasal Spray from the box.
Step 7
Call 911 right away, if you have not done so already. Roll the person on their side and place them in the ‘recovery position.’
How to Recognize an Overdose
- Person is passed out and you cannot wake them up.
- Breathing is very slow, making gurgling sounds, or not breathing at all.
- Lips are blue or grayish color.
Check for a Response
- Shake them and shout to wake them up.
- If no response, grind your knuckles into their chest bone for 5 – 10 seconds.
- If the person still does not respond, call 911.
Important Reminders
- Steve’s Law – when someone is overdosing, that person needs help right away. Steve’s Law provides immunity from civil or criminal charges as long as pharmacies, prescribing providers, and the general public act in good faith. Steve’s Law provides immunity to the individual overdosing and the person seeking help.
- Naloxone, the active medicine in Narcan®, wears off in 30 to 90 minutes. Stay with the person until they go to the hospital, or until the naloxone wears off, to make sure they do not overdose again.