What is Narcan (naloxone)? Uses, how it works, and where to get it

If you’ve watched the local news in the past few years, you’ve probably heard the name Narcan.

Even if opioids haven’t touched your life directly, the reality is that overdose prevention is everyone’s responsibility. With fentanyl showing up in more places than ever and often where people least expect it, knowing what Narcan is and how to use it can save a life.

Whether it’s for someone you love, a neighbor, or a stranger on the street, being prepared matters.

Known by its generic name, naloxone, Narcan is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, often within minutes. But let’s be clear. It’s not a cure or a long-term solution for opioid addiction, but at that right moment, it can mean the difference between life and death.

As opioid-related emergencies become more common, Narcan is becoming more accessible. It’s now available as an easy-to-use nasal spray that doesn’t require a prescription in most states. That means more people (parents, friends, teachers, and even bystanders) can be ready to help when it matters most.

We believe knowledge and access save lives. That’s why we created this guide. We’ll walk through what Narcan is, how it works, when it’s used, and how to get it. If you or someone close to you is struggling with opioid use or recovery, know that help is available, and no one has to face this alone.

And if you’re looking for support, treatment options, or more information about opioid recovery, we offer judgment-free, expert care right from home.

What is Narcan, and what does it do?

Narcan, the brand name for naloxone, is a medication that can quickly reverse an opioid overdose. It works by latching onto the same brain receptors that opioids target. But instead of turning them on, it shuts them off.

Opioids like fentanyl, heroin, oxycodone, and morphine can slow your breathing when taken in high doses. Narcan temporarily reverses this effect, restoring normal breathing patterns until more comprehensive medical help arrives.

It’s crucial to understand that Narcan isn’t addressing the underlying addiction to opioids. It won’t reduce cravings or help someone stop using opioids long-term. But it is a powerful safety net in the moment. It gives someone another chance, a window of time to get the help they need.

Today, Narcan is available in several forms, but the most widely used is the Narcan nasal spray, which is simple to administer and requires no medical training. In emergencies, this ease of use is critical, especially when time is of the essence.

Knowing how Narcan works is important, but it’s just as vital to address the questions and concerns many people have about safety. 

Let’s take a closer look at common side effects and clear up a few of the biggest Narcan myths.

Is Narcan safe? Side effects and three common myths

Yes. In non-opioid users, Narcan has no effect, which is why it’s often recommended as a “just in case” tool for families, caregivers, and first responders. 

When given to someone experiencing an opioid overdose, the side effects of Narcan tend to be mild and temporary. Often, people may experience headaches, some fluctuation in blood pressure, or irritation inside the nose from the spray formula.

That said, there are still several misconceptions that can make people hesitant to use or carry it. Let’s clear those up right now.

Myth 1: Giving Narcan encourages drug use

This is one of the most persistent myths, and one of the most harmful. 

The idea that making Narcan available enables drug use has been widely disproven. Studies show that access to Narcan does not increase drug use; it simply reduces deaths. Narcan is a tool for survival, not a replacement for opioid addiction treatment.

Myth 2: Narcan is dangerous for non-opioid users

This is false. If Narcan is given to someone who hasn’t taken opioids, it won’t harm them. 

It only works on opioid receptors in the brain, meaning it has no effect if opioids aren’t involved. That’s why emergency responders use it in cases where they’re not yet sure what’s causing unconsciousness, because the potential benefit far outweighs the risk.

Myth 3: You don’t need Narcan unless someone is using street drugs

Many overdoses happen to people taking prescribed medications. Patients recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or even those accidentally taking the wrong dose can experience dangerous respiratory depression. 

Narcan is useful for anyone at risk, including people taking opioids as prescribed. Having it on hand is all about being prepared, not judgment.

With safety concerns addressed, the next question becomes, who actually needs to carry Narcan? 

Who should carry Narcan?

Sometimes, the most powerful tools are in the hands of everyday people. Narcan is one of them. In today’s world, a lot of people choose to keep it on hand in case they ever need to use it.

Anyone who might witness an opioid overdose should consider carrying Narcan. 

This includes:

• People who use opioids, whether prescribed or not
• Friends and family members of people who use opioids
• People in recovery from opioid use disorder
• Healthcare workers, social workers, and addiction counselors
• Teachers, librarians, and public safety staff
• Anyone living in communities affected by fentanyl or opioid misuse

Carrying Narcan doesn’t mean you expect something to go wrong. It means you’re prepared to help someone in need. 

Think of it like having an EpiPen for someone with severe allergies. Narcan nasal spray is a safety tool that can make a difference in an emergency.

In fact, some states now encourage or even require public institutions to keep Narcan on-site, and some pharmacies and community programs offer it for free.

That said, access isn’t guaranteed everywhere. A proposed federal budget for 2025 includes a $56 million reduction in funding that currently helps provide naloxone to first responders across the country. If passed, this could limit the availability of Narcan in some of the communities that need it most.

But for now, Narcan remains widely accessible, and local programs continue working hard to keep it that way. But it’s another reminder of why having it on hand yourself can be such an important step.

If you’re unsure whether it makes sense to carry Narcan, a provider at QuickMD can help you think through your risk, answer questions about naloxone use, and help you access it affordably.

If you’ve decided to carry Narcan, or even if you’re just considering it, knowing how to use it properly is key. In an emergency, quick action and confidence can make all the difference.

How to use Narcan nasal spray

Narcan nasal spray is designed to be simple, fast, and safe, even for people with no medical training. In a crisis, every second matters, and Narcan is made with that urgency in mind.

If you suspect someone is having an opioid overdose, here’s what to do.

Check for responsiveness

Start by trying to wake the person. Call their name, gently shake them, or apply a sternum rub (rub your knuckles firmly on the center of their chest). If they don’t respond or their breathing seems shallow, irregular, or has stopped, act quickly.

Call 911

Before anything else, call emergency services. Even if Narcan temporarily revives someone, medical care is still critical. Opioids can remain in the body after Narcan wears off, and symptoms may return.

How to administer Narcan nasal spray

• Remove the Narcan nasal spray from the box.
• Tilt the person’s head back.
• Gently insert the nozzle into one nostril.
• Press the plunger firmly to release the full dose.

You don’t need to spray in both nostrils; one dose in one nostril is enough to start.

Monitor the person and be ready to give a second dose

Stay with them and observe closely. If they don’t respond within 2-3 minutes, administer a second dose in the other nostril using a new spray device. If breathing improves, place them on their side in the recovery position.

Stay until help arrives

Even if they seem alert and responsive, Narcan wears off within 30 to 90 minutes. The overdose can return. Don’t leave the person alone. Let EMS take over and provide ongoing care when they arrive.

Tip: Keep Narcan somewhere easy to grab, whether it’s your bag, a first aid kit, or your glove compartment. You never know when fast action might be needed.

Need help accessing Narcan or learning how to use it? We have resources that can help guide you through the process and help make sure you’re prepared.

Now that you know how Narcan works and how to use it, the next step is figuring out how to access it. Thankfully, getting Narcan has become easier and often more affordable than ever before.

Where to get Narcan and how much it costs

One of the most important facts about Narcan is that it’s widely available, and in many places, you can get it for free. 

Thanks to changes in federal and state laws, Narcan nasal spray can now be purchased over the counter (OTC) at major pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens. That means you don’t need a prescription or ID to buy it.

In many states, public health departments and harm reduction organizations also distribute Narcan for free as part of broader efforts to prevent opioid overdose deaths. Local programs may even offer training on how to use it. Some schools, libraries, and community centers have started stocking it as well. 

Innovative access programs are emerging across the country, too. 

Programs like The Naloxone Project are working to expand access even further by helping equip law enforcement and other first responders with naloxone across the country.

And in Philadelphia, the city recently introduced the first Narcan vending machine in the United States. Located in West Philadelphia, this “Narcan Near Me” program allows anyone to access free Narcan 24/7 through a simple touchscreen process, without registration or paperwork. 

Health officials chose this location because West Philadelphia saw the greatest increase in overdoses in 2021, particularly with fentanyl contamination appearing in cocaine and other non-opioid drugs.

How much does Narcan cost?

The price of Narcan can vary. Over-the-counter versions usually cost between $40 and $100 per two-dose box if you’re paying out of pocket. However, some insurance plans may cover it partially or fully, especially with a prescription.

If you’re not sure where to start or whether Narcan makes sense for your situation, we can help. Our licensed providers can guide you through your options, connect you with resources, and ensure you’re prepared, whether you’re concerned about a loved one or your community.

Many healthcare providers recommend a Narcan prescription for anyone with opioid use disorder (OUD), even if they aren’t currently using. It’s all about being prepared in case someone nearby is in danger. 

Some doctors also suggest keeping Narcan in a visible or known place at home and letting other household members know where it is. That way, if an emergency does happen, no one wastes time searching.

While Narcan is available over the counter, having a prescription may help lower the cost if your insurance covers it. Either way, access is improving, and we can walk you through your options to make sure you’re covered.

Here’s a breakdown of where you can get Narcan and what to expect:

Still have questions or need help figuring out whether Narcan makes sense for you or your family? That’s where we come in.

How QuickMD can help

If you’re not sure how to access Narcan or whether it’s the right step for you or someone you care about, we can help.

We have many resources to help you stay informed that can help guide you through what Narcan is, how to use it safely, and where to find it, whether at a local pharmacy or through a public program near you.

Beyond emergency preparedness, we also offer opioid addiction treatment services. Our licensed providers specialize in Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) using Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone), which helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while supporting long-term recovery. MAT addresses the biological aspects of addiction while you work on rebuilding your life.

We understand how personal and urgent these moments can be. That’s why we offer private, judgment-free telemedicine visits, so you get support, not stigma.

Whether you’re worried about a friend, want to be prepared in case of emergency, or simply have questions about Narcan and opioid safety, we’re here for you.

Narcan saves lives, and help is closer than you think

If you or someone you know is dealing with opioid use, remember, recovery is possible, setbacks are part of it, and having resources like Narcan available doesn’t mean you’re enabling use. It means you’re choosing hope and possibility. Having Narcan nearby means giving someone a second chance when they need it most.

If you or someone you know is affected by opioid use, or if you’re just trying to learn more about overdose prevention, there’s support available. You’re not in this alone. 

Frequently asked questions about Narcan

Does Narcan work for overdoses caused by fentanyl-laced drugs?

Yes, but it might take more than one dose. Narcan can reverse fentanyl overdoses, but because fentanyl is so potent and acts so quickly in the body, you might need to administer multiple doses before you see someone start to respond.

Even if someone wakes up and seems fine after Narcan, always call 911. The effects of Narcan wear off faster than some opioids, which means symptoms can come back when the Narcan fades. Medical monitoring is absolutely crucial.

Does Narcan expire?

Yes, Narcan does expire, typically 18 to 24 months from the date it was manufactured. Over time, its potency can decline, so it’s best to replace it before it expires. 

But that being said, if you’re in an emergency and all you have is expired Narcan, use it. It’s far better to use expired naloxone than to do nothing at all.

You might be wondering what happens if your Narcan has been sitting in a hot car during the summer or tossed in a bag through freezing winter weather.

The truth is, naloxone is tougher than you’d expect. A 2019 study found that it stayed chemically stable even after being exposed to extreme conditions, like heat as high as 176°F (80°C) and multiple rounds of freezing and thawing. That’s the kind of wear-and-tear that can happen when it’s stored in places like your glove boxes, backpacks, or desk drawers.

Bottom line: Even if it’s expired or has been through temperature swings, use what you have in an emergency. Then follow up with emergency medical care, and replace it when you can.

Does Narcan work on dogs who accidentally ingest opioids?

This is becoming a real concern with fentanyl turning up in more places. While vets have successfully used naloxone to save dogs that have accidentally ingested opioids, Narcan is specifically made for humans.

If you think your pet has been exposed to any opioid, get to an emergency vet immediately. Don’t try to give your pet Narcan on your own; the dosing is completely different, and you need a professional to assess what’s happening and provide proper care.