Frequently Asked Questions
Expand the accordions to find answers to common questions.
How does Narcan work?
Narcan is an opioid antagonist, which means that it attaches to opioid receptors in the brain and reverses and blocks the effects of other opioids. If an overdosing person’s breathing has slowed or stopped, Narcan quickly restores normal breathing.
Does Narcan have side effects?
Narcan may (but not always) cause opioid withdrawal symptoms in people who are dependent on opioids. A person may experience sweating, tremors, fever, nausea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, yawning, rapid heart rate, anxiety or irritability. Withdrawal symptoms are not usually life-threatening, and the risk of dying of an overdose is much greater than the risk from withdrawal.
How long does Narcan last?
Narcan lasts for about 30-90 minutes. Opioids often stay in the body longer than 90 minutes. When Narcan wears off, the person you gave it to may start to experience overdose symptoms again, like difficulty breathing and/or falling unconscious. If that happens, give another dose of Narcan. For this reason, it’s important to stay with the person for at least four hours after the last dose given.
What type of overdoses will Narcan work on?
Narcan will only work on an opioid overdose, but it is safe to use even if you are not sure what drugs the person took.
Who is Narcan safe for?
Narcan is safe for everyone. Narcan can be given safely to people of all ages, from infants to elderly adults. This includes a child who may have accidentally taken an opioid pain reliever or medicine to treat opioid use disorder. Narcan will not harm someone experiencing another kind of medical emergency with symptoms that seem like an opioid overdose, like a heart attack or a stroke. If a person of any age seems to be experiencing an opioid overdose, it is safe to give them Narcan.
Can I use Narcan on myself?
Narcan is given after an overdose. An overdosing person is often unconscious or has difficulty breathing or moving. If you use opioids, you should let others know that you have Narcan, and where you keep it, in case you experience an opioid overdose.
Can Narcan prevent an overdose?
No, Narcan cannot prevent an overdose.
Is Narcan addictive?
No, Narcan is not addictive.