Using Naloxone

NOTE: Naloxone is available in various forms such as one dose ampoule, multi dose ampoule, pre filled syringe and intranasal spray. Availability will depend on area of residence. This site focuses on single dose for injecting – consult with local drug service to see local availability.

Naloxone is a Prescription Only Medicine
Can be supplied to individual considered to be at high risk of future opioid overdose as take home medication
Law allows that Naloxone can be given by any member of the public for the purpose of saving a life
Prescribed by Consultant/GP or other medical staff (usually registered nurses) under Patient Group or Specific Direction
Supply dependent of user being trained in overdose prevention and Naloxone administration
Protocols: PGD/SDG, training, competency, consent and monitoring

Preparing Naloxone for injecting

Remove syringe and needle from package
Attach needle to syringe
‘Tap’ ampoule to remove Naloxone from ampoule neck
Carefully ‘snap’ ampoule
Insert needle and draw up Naloxone – aspirate syringe
Identify injecting site

Injecting Naloxone

Inject into the outer thigh, upper arm or outer part of buttock
Hold needle (like a dart) 90 degree above skin
Spread skin – insert needle into muscle (needs pressure)
Slowly and steadily push plunger all the way down
Remove needle and syringe
Safely dispose of needle, syringe and used ampoule

Quadriceps Muscle
(upper thigh)
Deltoid Muscle
(upper arm)
Gluteal Muscles
(outer buttocks)

After Naloxone injection

Can take several minutes (2-5) to start working
If responsive and breathing place in recovery position
The person may be confused. Explain to them what happened
Advise the person not to walk away until they have been seen by the paramedics
Advise them to not use any further drugs
Remind the person that naloxone will wear off in a little while and the opiate effect will gradually return
If they refuse to go to hospital, explain to them that they might slip back into overdose over the next 2-3 hours