How to use Narcan to reverse an opioid overdose, save a life

The fentanyl crisis has gripped North Texas, and one medication may save the life of someone experiencing an opioid overdose. Here’s how to use it.

Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. The drug is commonly available in a nasal spray, known as Narcan, but can also be administered via an injectable. It blocks the effects of opiates on the brain and can help restore a person’s normal breathing.

Administering the nasal spray takes three steps: Peel, place and press.

• Peel back the packaging and remove the device. Each unit is one dose.
• Place the tip of the nozzle as far as possible in either nostril.
• Press down on the plunger. Call 911 after administering the medication.

Additional doses can be given every minute until someone begins breathing normally, according to Richard Bradshaw, of Brazos Recovery Services. Each unit is one dose, and CPR may be necessary if a person doesn’t respond.

Naloxone will not harm someone who is not experiencing an overdose and it has no psychoactive effects. It is legal to own and administer in Texas, Bradshaw said.

Indications of an opioid overdose include heavy or uncontrollable nodding; snoring or loud breathing; unresponsiveness; very shallow breathing or gurgling; pale skin or blue lips, Bradshaw said. Pinpoint pupils are also a telltale sign, medical professionals say.

“I always tell people to err on the side of caution and go ahead and administer Narcan,” Bradshaw said.

Police departments throughout North Texas, notably Frisco and Plano police, are starting to equip officers with Naloxone, in addition to paramedics. The drug is also available over-the-counter at CVS and Walgreens, according to their websites.