Naloxone is used in the emergency treatment of suspected or known opioid overdose.
Opioid overdose is a condition caused by excessive use of opioids (strong painkillers such as morphine, tramadol, oxycodone, methadone). The signs and symptoms of opioid overdose are unusual sleepiness, slow or shallow breathing, small pupils, and bluish color of hands, feet, or limbs.
If you are suspecting an opioid overdose, administer Naloxone nasal spray right away.
Use Naloxone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
To use the nasal spray, follow these steps:
- Place the patient in supine position, put a support at the back of the neck and tilt the head back.
- Peel the package and remove the spray. Put your thumb on the bottom of the plunger and two fingers on the nozzle.
- Place and hold the tip of the nozzle in either nostril until your fingers touch the bottom of the patient’s nose.
- Release the dose into the patient’s nose, by pressing the plunger firmly. Administer in alternating nostrils with each dose.
- Turn the patient on their side after administration.
- Each container contains a single nasal spray; do not reuse.
Make sure you know how to use the nasal spray. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Instruct other family members or caregivers regarding the proper use of this medicine, so they would know how to administer this medicine in case of an opioid emergency.
It is important to know where the nasal spray is stored in case of an opioid emergency.
Naloxone nasal spray is not a substitute for emergency medical care. Even if the person wakes up, get emergency help right away after you have administered the first dose.
Do not share your nasal spray with others as it could spread infection.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease
- history of seizure
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child.
Naloxone may cause any of the following side effects: constipation, dry skin, toothache, muscle spasm, joint pain, muscle pain, headache, dry nose, stuffy nose, runny nose, swelling and pain in the nose.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor if you are taking medicines used to reduce constipation caused by opioids e.g. methylnaltrexone, naldemedine, naloxegol.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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