Naloxone & Opioid Poisoning

Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid poisoning/overdose. Naloxone binds more effectively to the opioid receptors in the brain, temporarily removing the opioid and their harmful effects. This, in turn, reverses the respiratory depression that can lead to a fatal opioid overdose.

Once administered, naloxone will start to work in approximately 1-5 minutes. Naloxone stays active in the body for 60-90 minutes. Since naloxone only temporarily removes opioids from the opioid receptors, opioids will return back to the receptors and overdose symptoms can return.

It is important to always call 911 before administering naloxone outside of a medical or hospital setting.

What is Naloxone?

Nalxone is indicated for individuals who:

  • Currently use opioids or have a history of opioid use

  • Are at risk for opioid poisoning/overdose

  • Do not have previous hypersensitivity to naloxone hydrochloride

  • Have contact with individuals who use opioids

  • Please click here for information about the signs and symptoms of opioid poisoning. You may also want to learn about risk factors for opioid poisoning.

  • Direction 180 provides opioid overdose education, training, and free Take Home Naloxone kits on site. Naloxone is also available for free from most local community pharmacies. For information on where in get a free naloxone kit in Nova Scotia, click here.

    If you would like to learn more about naloxone, obtain a kit, or organize a training session in the community, please contact our Naloxone Coordinator at (902) 420-0566, ext. 223 or laurav@direction180.ca

  • For information about the Nova Scotia Take Home Naloxone Program, please click here.

    You can also call them toll-free at 1-833-347-2142 or email them at nsnaloxone@nshealth.ca

  • "5 Steps to Save a Life" is an insert in the kits provided by the Nova Scotia Take Home Naloxone Program. There are instructions for administering both the injectable and nasal naloxone.

  • Injectable naloxone, also known as intramuscular nalxone, has been available in Nova Scotia since 2017. In the summer of 2024, the province started distributing intranasal naloxone.

    While there are some differences, both are safe and effective at reversing an opioid poisoning. For more information, see the comparison chart.

  • To reduce the risks of accidental death and drug poisoning, please find out about NORS , a convenient and confidential peer-run overdose prevention hotline.

    Call or text 1-888-688-NORS (6677) from anywhere in Canada to access this virtual safer consumption hotline open 24/7, 365 days a year.