What Is Naloxone?

Naloxone is a life-saving medication that is used to reverse an overdose from opioids. It can help reverse the effects of heroin, fentanyl, and other prescription opioid medications. It was first created in 1961 and became an FDA approved medication in 1971. It is used as a nasal spray and helps to reverse the effects of opioids in the body. It is quick, easy, and effective in use in helping prevent an overdose in dangerous situations. Naloxone spray takes about two to three minutes to become effective, if the person doesn’t wake after the first dose a second should be administered. The good thing about this medication is that anyone can purchase from any nearby pharmacy without a prescription. Although this medication is great to have in emergency situations, like many other medications they do have certain side effects. Some of those effects include increased blood pressure, musculoskeletal pain, headache, nasal dryness, nasal swelling, nasal congestion, and nasal inflammation. The effects of this medication can also last between 30-90 minutes as well. To use naloxone spray, gently insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril, until your fingers on either side of the nozzle are against the bottom of the person’s nose. Press the plunger firmly to give the dose of Naloxone Nasal Spray. Remove the Naloxone Nasal Spray from the nostril after giving the dose. Red Cross, CDC, as well as other health related websites offer training on how to properly administer medication with step by step guides. This is a revolutionary medication that could help prevent further overdoses from opioids in the future.