Get Naloxone (Narcan) Free in California

What Is Naloxone?

Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is a medication that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose. It works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain and restoring normal breathing within 2–5 minutes. It is safe to administer even if you are not sure an overdose is opioid-related — it will not harm someone who has not taken opioids.

Naloxone is FDA-approved and has been available to emergency responders for decades. In recent years, it has been made widely available to the public in response to the opioid epidemic. It is now available over the counter at most U.S. pharmacies without a prescription.

How to Recognize an Opioid Overdose

• Unresponsive — cannot be woken up
• Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing (fewer than one breath every 5 seconds)
• Choking or gurgling sounds
• Blue or grayish lips, fingernails, or skin
• Pinpoint (very small) pupils
• Limp body, pale or clammy skin

If someone is unconscious and cannot be woken up, assume an overdose and act immediately.

How to Use Naloxone (Nasal Spray)

The most common form is a nasal spray (Narcan, Kloxxado). Here is how to use it:

1. 1
   Call 911 immediately

   Tell them someone is unresponsive and possibly overdosing on opioids.

2. 2
   Lay the person on their back

   Tilt their head back slightly to open the airway.

3. 3
   Administer naloxone

   Insert the nozzle into one nostril. Press the plunger firmly to release the full dose. If you have a second dose and the person does not respond within 2–3 minutes, give the second dose in the other nostril.

4. 4
   Place them in the recovery position

   Turn them on their side to prevent choking on vomit while you wait for paramedics.

5. 5
   Stay until help arrives

   Monitor their breathing. If they stop breathing, begin rescue breathing if you are trained. Good Samaritan laws protect you for staying.

6. 6
   Expect withdrawal

   Naloxone can trigger sudden withdrawal symptoms. The person may wake up agitated, confused, or nauseous. Do not let them use more drugs — the naloxone may wear off before the opioids do.

Where to Get Naloxone in California

After an Overdose — Getting Treatment

An opioid overdose is a medical emergency and a serious warning sign that someone needs help. Naloxone saves lives in the moment — but treatment saves them long-term.

If you or someone you love has experienced an overdose, our counselors are here to help find the right treatment in California. We can help with same-day detox referrals, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and long-term recovery planning.