April 17, 2023—The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved naloxone nasal spray—an emergency treatment for opioid overdose—as an over-the-counter medication. That means it will soon be easier than ever to access this lifesaving medicine.
Be prepared for opioid emergencies
If you or someone in your household takes an opioid, such as codeine, oxycodone or heroin, you may want to keep naloxone on hand. It can reverse the effects of an overdose—and save a life.
Anyone who uses opioids could overdose. But according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk is higher for people who:
- Are 65 or older.
- Have a substance use disorder.
- Have certain health problems, such as sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or mental illness.
- Have overdosed in the past.
- Use opioids or other drugs that were purchased illegally—they may contain risky ingredients or higher doses.
- Take certain other substances with opioids, such as benzodiazepines or alcohol.
If you use opioids, ask your doctor about how to reduce your risk for overdose. And let the people around you know if you have naloxone—and where to find it in an emergency.
Know how to respond to an opioid overdose
Taking too much of an opioid can be life-threatening. Knowing the signs of overdose and having naloxone on hand can be the difference between life and death in an emergency.
If someone has overdosed, they may have symptoms such as:
- Clammy or cool skin.
- Discolored lips and nails.
- Gurgling or choking noises.
- Not responding or waking up.
- Shallow, slow breathing—or not breathing at all.
If you suspect someone has experienced an overdose, it's important to take action right away. According to CDC and FDA, following these steps can save a life:
- Call 911 right away.
- Give naloxone. You can follow the instructions on the package.
- Place the person on their side, and try to keep them awake.
Call 911 even if the person wakes up and is breathing normally. The overdose symptoms might return.
Naloxone is safe, says FDA. If you give it to someone who has not overdosed on opioids, it won't hurt them.
Keep in mind that naloxone works by reversing the effects of opioids. As a result, it can trigger opioid withdrawal symptoms in someone who is used to taking opioids. These symptoms aren't life-threatening, but they can be uncomfortable. They might include:
- Diarrhea.
- Feeling nervous or irritated.
- Fever.
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Shaking.
- Sweating.
Naloxone comes in different forms. For now, the only type approved for over-the-counter sales is a nasal spray sold under the brand name Narcan. It may take a few months until over-the-counter naloxone becomes available at pharmacies, stores and online retailers. Until then, anyone can buy naloxone by requesting it from a pharmacist—no prescription necessary.
Help is available
Are you concerned about how opioid use is affecting you? Your healthcare provider can help. To start the conversation, share the results of this interactive assessment.
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