home > drugs a-z list > narcan (naloxone) drug center > narcan (naloxone) drug - patient side effects and images

Brand Names: Narcan

Generic Name: naloxone (Pronunciation: nah LOX own)

• 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 is naloxone (Narcan)?

Naloxone is an special narcotic drug that reverses the effects of other narcotic medicines.

Naloxone is used to reverse the effects of narcotic drugs used during surgery or to treat pain. Naloxone may also be used to treat narcotic drug overdose or to diagnose narcotic drug addiction.

Naloxone may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of naloxone (Narcan)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using naloxone and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• chest pain or fast or irregular heartbeats;
• feeling light-headed, fainting;
• seizure (convulsions); or
• difficulty breathing.

Less serious side effects may include:

• dizzines, weakness, tired feeling;
• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
• feeling nervous, restless, or excited;
• sweating;
• runny nose; or
• trembling.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about naloxone (Narcan)?

Before using naloxone, tell your doctor if you are using any narcotic pain medicines. The pain-relieving effects of any narcotic medications you use will be reversed if you use them during your treatment with naloxone. Withdrawal symptoms could also occur, such as body aches, diarrhea, increased heart rate, fever, sweating, nausea or vomiting, irritability, trembling, weakness, and increased blood pressure. Your doctor may want to observe you after using naloxone to watch for side effects.

Naloxone can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking naloxone. Alcohol may increase dizziness caused by naloxone.