Naloxone, known by the brand name Narcan, is a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid poisoning. It is an opioid antagonist, meaning that it binds to opioid receptors and can reverse and block the effects of opioids. It can very quickly restore normal respiration to a person whose breathing has slowed or stopped as a result of poisoning with heroin, fentanyl or prescription opioid medications.
There are 3 FDA-approved methods of administering Naloxone, Narcan Nasal Spray being the most common. Learn how to administer Naloxone here.
Pennsylvania Act 139 allows anyone to have access to Naloxone. Act 139 also provides immunity to anyone reporting or responding to an overdose. Access to Naloxone has proven to save lives.