How to administer naloxone
Find out when naloxone should be given to a person, who should give it and how it is given. Learn where to go for help and support if you need it.
When should naloxone be administered?
Naloxone should be administered to a person when they are experiencing an opioid overdose or adverse reaction.
Who should administer naloxone?
Anyone can administer naloxone. Just follow the instructions provided with the packaging.
How to use naloxone
When you are provided with naloxone, you will be given some information about how to use it. It is usually administered via an injection or nasal spray.
Naloxone is easy to use and instructions are included with each product:
You can also talk to your pharmacist or provider when you receive naloxone to ask for more information.
To use naloxone:
- Administer the naloxone, following the instructions you’ve been given
- Call 000 for an ambulance immediately
It is vital to call an ambulance because naloxone only lasts for about 30 to 90 minutes and the person can overdose again once it wears off.
Where can I get further help and support?
In a medical emergency, call 000.
Other useful contacts include:
National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline contact
Call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline for free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drugs.
Medicines Line
Contact Medicines Line on 1300 MEDICINE for information on prescription, over-the-counter and other medicines (such as complementary medicines). The service is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm AEST (excluding NSW public holidays).
Reaching out for help and support is an important first step in dealing with the issues drugs and alcohol might be causing in your life, or affecting a friend or family member.
You can also find more support services in our drugs topic.