Safety & Harm Reduction · 7 of 25

Naloxone can save a life

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.

Learn more

For everyone across Canada. General education; individual care needs medical advice. For a medical emergency, call 911, keep yourself safe, and follow the dispatcher’s directions.

Free to share and print

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