Naloxone
What is Naloxone?
Naloxone is an easy-to-use medication that reverses an opioid overdose (including fentanyl, heroin and prescription medication). Narcan is the brand name of Naloxone commonly used.
Naloxone is available in different forms including nasal spray. Two common forms of naloxone are Narcan (4mg nasal spray) and Revive (3mg nasal spray).
Naloxone is safe for use by everyone, including older adults, pregnant people, kids, and even pets!
Think of Naloxone as first aid - It can save a life, just like CPR or an AED
Many people carry Naloxone to be prepared in case someone may need it
Where can I get Naloxone?
The North Shore Health Department offers FREE, short training sessions on how to use Naloxone and fentanyl/xylazine test strips, along with a free box of Naloxone and test strips for businesses, community members, and residents.
Click the button below view our calendar to sign up for Naloxone Training, or call Tanya, one of NSHD’s Public Health Strategist, to talk about training and schedule a time. (414) 371-2985
Where to get FREE Naloxone
North Shore Health Department- Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm at 5901 N. Milwaukee River Parkway, Glendale, WI 53209
NSHD Harm Reduction Vending Machine in Brown Deer Village Hall Lobby- Available 24/7 (if doors are locked, please press the outside buzzer) at 4800 W. Green Brook Dr., Brown Deer, WI 53223
Various Milwaukee County Harm Reduction Vending Machines:
Frequently Asked Questions about Naloxone
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Opioids are prescribed to treat pain.
People often prescribed opioids after a surgery, following an injury, or for health conditions such as cancer.
Opioids are addictive and should only be used as prescribed from your doctor.
Below are the most commonly prescribed opioids:
Hydrocodone (such as Vicodin®, Norco®)
Oxycodone (such as OxyContin®, Percocet®)
Morphine (such as MS Contin®, Kadian®)
Anyone who takes prescription opioids can become addicted to them.
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Yes Naloxone does expire. There should be an expiration date on the packaging you received it in. You’re more than welcome to bring in your expired naloxone to our office to trade out for a new box.
Naloxone can be effective well past its expiration date. It’s better to use expired Naloxone in an emergency than none at all.
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Naloxone is safe for anyone.
People who use unprescribed opioids
People who take prescribed opioids
Children who ingest opioids
Pets who are prescribed opioids
People who are pregnant
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Yes, Naloxone is safe to give to someone who is not experiencing an opioid related overdose.
If in a moment you are not exactly sure what drug may be causing someone to overdose, it is safe to give them Naloxone. Keep in mind, it will not reverse their overdose as Naloxone is specific to only opioid overdoses.
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If you know a person is experiencing an opioid overdose and doesn’t respond to the first dose of Naloxone, wait three minutes and deliver a second dose if available.
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Naloxone typically restores breathing within 2-3 minutes. An additional dose may be needed if the person does not respond.
Naloxone lasts from 30-90 minutes. This means that an overdose can return, making it essential to call 911 immediately when you notice a person is overdosing.