What is Naloxone (Narcan)?
Naloxone, commonly known by the brand name Narcan, is a life-saving medication designed to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Opioids, such as heroin, fentanyl, methadone, OxyContin®, and Vicodin®, can dangerously slow or stop breathing, leading to death. Naloxone works by displacing opioids from their receptors in the brain, allowing normal breathing to resume.
Important Note: Naloxone is only effective for opioid-based substances and does not impact alcohol poisoning. It is safe to use even if the cause of the overdose is uncertain.
Where to Get Naloxone for Free
Naloxone is available for free to all students, faculty, and staff at the following campus locations:
- H Building:
- Vending Machine
- ASCBC Offices
- Hawk Central
- Sunhawk Hall
- Food Pantry:
- SRC, check here for open hours
- Richland Campus - HSC Building (3rd Floor)
- Library
- X Building
- CTE Building
- T Building - La CASA
- Richland Campus - MSC 3rd Fl Student Lounge
-
Counseling Center: L Building
You can also have Naloxone nasal spray mailed to you at no cost through various community programs. Use this state-based locator to find a nearby pharmacy, clinic, or community organization that provides Naloxone distribution.
Recognizing an Opioid Overdose
Classic Signs:
-
- Pinpoint (tiny) pupils
- Loss of consciousness
- Breathing problems or not breathing at all
Other Signs:
-
- Blue or purplish fingernails or lips
- Limp extremities
- Vomiting or gurgling sounds
What to Do if Someone is Overdosing
- Call 911 Immediately.
- Administer Naloxone if available.
- Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
- Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
- Stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives.
How to Administer Naloxone (Nasal Spray)
- Identify Opioid Overdose and Check for Response:
- Ask if the person is okay and shout their name.
- Shake their shoulders and rub the middle of their chest.
- Check for signs of an opioid overdose.
- Lay the person on their back.
- Give Naloxone Nasal Spray:
- Remove the spray from the box and peel back the tab.
- Hold the spray with your thumb on the bottom of the plunger and your first and middle fingers on either side of the nozzle.
- Gently insert the nozzle into one nostril and press the plunger firmly.
- Call for Emergency Medical Help:
- Call 911 and move the person to the recovery position (on their side).
- Watch closely and give another dose if the person does not respond within 2-3 minutes.
- Repeat as necessary until emergency help arrives.
Opioid Overdose Response and Fentanyl Education Videos
Learn how to administer Naloxone through an online training video. Videos are available in both English and Spanish.
English
Spanish
Washington's Good Samaritan Law
In Washington State, the Good Samaritan Law (RCW 4.24.300) provides legal protection
for individuals who offer assistance during emergencies, including cases of opioid
overdose. This law is designed to encourage bystanders to help in crisis situations
without fear of legal repercussions.
Any person who renders emergency care at the scene of an emergency without expecting compensation is protected from civil damages, as long as their actions do not constitute gross negligence or willful misconduct. This protection extends to individuals who administer Naloxone to someone experiencing an opioid overdose.
Washington also has a specific 911 Good Samaritan Law that provides additional protection in drug overdose situations. If you seek medical assistance for someone experiencing a drug-related overdose, you will not be charged with possession of a controlled substance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Someone Overdose Again After Receiving Naloxone?
Yes, Naloxone temporarily displaces opioids, and its effects last 30-90 minutes. A
second overdose can occur if the opioids in the system outlast the Naloxone. Medical
attention is crucial.
Can Too Much Naloxone Be Harmful?
No, it is not possible to harm someone with too much Naloxone. However, it can cause
withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals.
Does Naloxone Work on Fentanyl?
Yes, although it may require more doses. Naloxone can reverse fentanyl overdoses,
but immediate treatment is critical.
For more information or questions, contact Campus Security at 509-542-4819 or campussecurityFREECOLUMBIA_BASIN.
Additional Resources
