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In this Article

• What is naloxone (Narcan)?
• What are the possible side effects of naloxone (Narcan)?
• What is the most important information I should know about naloxone (Narcan)?
• What should I discuss with my health care provider before using naloxone (Narcan)?
• How should I use naloxone (Narcan)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Narcan)?
• What happens if I overdose (Narcan)?
• What should I avoid while using naloxone (Narcan)?
• What other drugs will affect naloxone (Narcan)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using naloxone (Narcan)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to naloxone.

Before using naloxone, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• a brain tumor or head injury;
• seizures;
• heart disease or a heart rhythm disorder; or
• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use naloxone.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether naloxone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use naloxone without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use naloxone (Narcan)?

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Naloxone is given as an injection under the skin, into a muscle, or into a vein. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider will give you this injection. You may be shown how to inject your medicine at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles and syringes.

Do not draw your naloxone dose into a syringe until you are ready to give yourself an injection. Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has any particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Use each disposable needle only one time. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

Store this medication at room temperature away from heat and moisture.