Naloxone can save a life
Safety & Harm Reduction — Guide 7 of 25

Naloxone temporarily reverses an opioid overdose. Carrying it and learning to use it are practical ways to help.

What to know
Naloxone works on opioids. It does not reverse alcohol or stimulant poisoning by itself, but opioids may be involved when the substance is unknown. Call emergency services whenever an overdose is suspected.

Be prepared
- Ask a pharmacy or local harm reduction service about kits and training. Access and cost vary by region.
- Check the expiry date and storage directions.
- Tell trusted people where your kit is kept.
- Follow the instructions for your specific nasal spray or injectable kit.

During an emergency
Give naloxone promptly if an opioid overdose is possible. If there is no response after 2–3 minutes, another dose may be needed; follow the kit and dispatcher’s directions. Continue emergency care. Its effects can wear off, so the person still needs medical attention even if they wake up.

If you are helping someone
Anyone may need to respond to an overdose. Ask for training rather than assuming naloxone is only for people who use drugs.

WARN (OTHERS): After immediate care is covered, share dated advisories or observed concerns. Say what is confirmed and what is uncertain. Protect people’s privacy. Emergency care comes first. Never share someone’s name, identifying photo or private health details.

Your next step
Find out where to get a kit and practise with a trainer kit or demonstration.

Learn more
Health Canada — Naloxone
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/opioids/naloxone.html

Current guide: https://therealdopeproject.com/safety-guides/naloxone-can-save-a-life

The Real DOPE Project — Safety Is for Everyone.

Contact: therealdopeproject@gmail.com

Resource text updated: 2026-10-13. Earlier sources retain their individual review dates.

General education, not individual medical advice or first aid certification. In an emergency, call 911 and follow the dispatcher and your exact kit instructions.

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