What is Naloxone Injection: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Naloxone injection is a life-saving medication that quickly reverses opioid overdoses. It works by blocking opioid receptors in your brain, essentially "pushing out" dangerous drugs like heroin, fentanyl, or prescription painkillers that have caused someone to stop breathing or lose consciousness.

This medication has become an essential tool in fighting the opioid crisis. Emergency responders, healthcare workers, and even family members use it to save lives when someone has taken too much of an opioid drug.

What is Naloxone Injection?

Naloxone injection is a fast-acting antidote that reverses opioid poisoning. Think of it as an emergency brake for your brain when opioids have slowed down your breathing and heart rate to dangerous levels.

The medication comes in different forms, including auto-injectors that are easy to use even without medical training. It's also known by brand names like Narcan, Evzio, and Zimhi.

Naloxone works by attaching to the same brain receptors that opioids target. However, it doesn't activate these receptors like opioids do. Instead, it blocks them, which stops the life-threatening effects of opioid overdose.

What is Naloxone Injection Used For?

Naloxone injection treats opioid overdoses caused by both illegal and prescription drugs. It's used when someone has taken too much of medications like morphine, oxycodone, heroin, or fentanyl.

The medication is specifically designed for emergency situations where someone shows signs of opioid poisoning. These signs include slow or stopped breathing, blue lips or fingernails, unconsciousness, and gurgling sounds.

Healthcare providers also use naloxone in hospitals and clinics to reverse the effects of opioid medications after surgery or medical procedures. Emergency medical teams carry it in ambulances as standard equipment.

Some people at high risk of overdose keep naloxone at home. This includes individuals taking prescription opioids for pain management or those in recovery from opioid addiction.

How Does Naloxone Injection Work?

Naloxone injection works by competing with opioids for space at brain receptors. It has a stronger attraction to these receptors than most opioids, so it can push them out of the way.

This medication is considered a very strong and fast-acting drug. When injected, it typically starts working within 2 to 5 minutes, which is crucial during an overdose when every second counts.

The effects of naloxone usually last 30 to 90 minutes. This is important because some opioids stay in your system longer than naloxone works. This means the person could go back into overdose after the naloxone wears off.

Naloxone doesn't make you feel good or cause a high. It simply blocks the dangerous effects of opioids without creating its own euphoric effects.

How Should I Take Naloxone Injection?

Naloxone injection should only be used during an opioid overdose emergency. If you suspect someone has overdosed, call emergency services immediately before giving naloxone.

Most naloxone injections come as auto-injectors that guide you through the process with voice instructions. You typically inject it into the outer thigh muscle, right through clothing if necessary.

After giving the injection, stay with the person and be ready to give a second dose if they don't respond within 2 to 3 minutes. Many overdoses require multiple doses to fully reverse the effects.

You don't need to eat or drink anything special before or after using naloxone. The medication works regardless of what's in your stomach.

How Long Should I Take Naloxone Injection For?

Naloxone injection is not a medication you take regularly. It's only used during overdose emergencies as a one-time treatment.

The effects of a single injection typically last 30 to 90 minutes. However, you might need to give additional doses if the person doesn't respond or if they slip back into overdose.

After using naloxone, the person needs immediate medical attention. Emergency room doctors will monitor them and provide additional treatment as needed.

If you're keeping naloxone at home for emergencies, check the expiration date regularly. Most naloxone products stay effective for 2 to 3 years when stored properly.

What Are the Side Effects of Naloxone Injection?

Naloxone injection can cause withdrawal symptoms in people who regularly use opioids. These happen because the medication suddenly blocks all opioid effects in their body.

Common side effects you might see include nausea, vomiting, sweating, and agitation. The person might also experience body aches, rapid heartbeat, and high blood pressure.

Here are the most frequently reported side effects when naloxone is given during an overdose:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating and chills
• Restlessness and agitation
• Rapid heartbeat
• High blood pressure
• Muscle aches and pains
• Runny nose and tearing

These withdrawal symptoms are uncomfortable but not life-threatening. They typically last a few hours and gradually improve as the naloxone wears off.

Serious side effects are rare but can include irregular heartbeat, seizures, or severe blood pressure changes. These usually happen when someone has other health conditions or has taken extremely large amounts of opioids.

Some people experience injection site reactions like pain, redness, or swelling where the needle went in. These reactions are usually mild and go away within a day or two.

Who Should Not Take Naloxone Injection?

Very few people should avoid naloxone injection during an opioid overdose emergency. The benefits of saving a life almost always outweigh any risks.

People with known allergies to naloxone should use it cautiously, but even then, it's often still the best choice during a life-threatening overdose. Allergic reactions to naloxone are extremely rare.

Pregnant women can safely receive naloxone during an overdose. The medication doesn't harm the developing baby, and preventing the mother's death is the priority.

People with heart conditions should still receive naloxone if they're overdosing. While it can cause rapid heartbeat and blood pressure changes, these are temporary and less dangerous than the overdose itself.

Naloxone Injection Brand Names

Naloxone injection is available under several brand names, each with slightly different delivery methods. The most common brand is Narcan, which comes as a nasal spray.

Evzio is an auto-injector that talks you through the injection process with voice instructions. It's designed for people without medical training to use during emergencies.

Zimhi is another auto-injector that contains a higher dose of naloxone. It's particularly useful for reversing overdoses from very potent opioids like fentanyl.

Generic versions of naloxone injection are also available and work just as effectively as brand-name products. The choice between brands often depends on availability and cost.

Naloxone Injection Alternatives

Naloxone nasal spray is the most common alternative to injection forms. It's easier to use and doesn't require handling needles, making it more accessible for family members and non-medical users.

Some areas have naloxone in pill form, but this isn't useful during overdoses because unconscious people can't swallow pills. The pill form is sometimes used in medical settings for other purposes.

Higher-dose naloxone products are becoming more common as street drugs become more potent. These alternatives contain more medication in each dose to overcome stronger opioids like fentanyl.

Training programs often recommend keeping multiple forms of naloxone available. This ensures you have options if one method doesn't work or isn't available during an emergency.

Is Naloxone Injection Better Than Narcan Nasal Spray?

Both naloxone injection and Narcan nasal spray are equally effective at reversing opioid overdoses. The choice between them often depends on personal preference and ease of use.

Narcan nasal spray is generally easier for untrained people to use. You simply insert it in the nostril and press the plunger firmly. There's no need to find injection sites or handle needles.

Naloxone injection might work slightly faster because it goes directly into muscle tissue. However, the difference is usually only a minute or two, which rarely matters in practice.

Both forms have similar side effects and effectiveness. The most important factor is having either one available during an overdose emergency, regardless of which specific form you choose.