Ottawa – How naloxone works? Naloxone (pronounced na-LOX-own) is a fast-acting medication used to temporarily reverse the effects of opioid overdoses, also called an opioid poisoning.
Naloxone can begin to take effect within 2 minutes. If a response to an initial dose is not seen within 2-3 minutes, subsequent doses can safely be given. When you take an opioid, it affects certain receptors in your brain. Naloxone works by kicking opioids off the receptors in your brain and binding to those receptors instead. This reverses or blocks the effects of opioids on your body.
Naloxone only works if you have opioids in your system, such as:
- fentanyl
- heroin
- morphine
- codeine
Naloxone only works temporarily
While naloxone is only active in the body for 30 to 120 minutes, the effects of most opioids last longer. This means that the effects of naloxone are likely to wear off before the opioids are gone from the body, which causes breathing to stop again.
Naloxone may need to be used again, depending on the amount or type of opioid taken, or how the opioids were taken (for example: oral, injection).
If you suspect an overdose:
- Know the signs of an overdose
- Stay and help. You can help save a life
- Call 911 (or your local emergency help line)
- Administer naloxone, if you have it
- Know that the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act protects you from simple drug possession charges
Naloxone is safe
Naloxone is safe for all ages. It only works if you have opioids in your system. You cannot use naloxone improperly and does not create dependence. It is safe to keep a naloxone kit on hand.
Types of naloxone kits available
In Canada, 2 types of take-home kits are available:
- Naloxone nasal spray is sprayed directly into the nose, where it is absorbed. Learn how to give naloxone spray (video).
- Naloxone injectable is injected into any muscle in the body, such as the arm or thigh. Learn how to give a naloxone injection (video).