Naloxone

What is naloxone and how does it work?

Naloxone, also known as Narcan®, is a potentially lifesaving drug that can reverse an opioid overdose. It can be administered as an injection or nasal spray.
When a person administers naloxone during an opioid overdose, naloxone disables an opioid’s harmful effects to the brain, temporarily reversing  an opioid overdose. It is only effective for an opioid overdose and is otherwise harmless. The effects of naloxone wear off after 30-45 minutes, so call 911 immediately.

Who should get naloxone?

Anyone who is or knows someone who is at risk of an opioid overdose whether that be your friend, a relative, or yourself.

Are there any legal concerns for carrying or administering naloxone?

It is legal to carry and administer naloxone. Additionally Minnesota has a Good Samaritan Law, also known as Steve’s Law, which protects someone who administers naloxone and calls 911 in good faith from prosecution, even if they are using drugs when the overdose occurs.

Why should someone carry naloxone?

Carrying naloxone can save the life of a friend, loved one, or even a complete stranger. Just as you would carry an EpiPen for allergies, you can carry a naloxone kit that could save your life or someone else’s life in an emergency. It is important to note, however, that you cannot administer naloxone on yourself.

Watch the The Importance of Naloxone in Reversing Opioid Overdose video to learn about the signs of an opioid overdose, more about naloxone and an overview of how to administer it. Remember, this is not a training video but you can receive training at any of the locations that provide naloxone.

Where can you find naloxone?

You can find naloxone at pharmacies, syringe service programs, and other harm reduction groups. All of these included on the Naloxone Finder map to find the nearest location. You can call or go to your preferred pharmacy and ask if they carry naloxone or Narcan®. If they do not, ask them to adopt a naloxone protocol. Check out our Naloxone Partners for more places to find naloxone. 

What is the cost of naloxone?

Insurance coverage can vary based on type of carrier when purchasing at a pharmacy. Naloxone is available at no cost at syringe service programs and harm reduction organizations.

Training resources

Minnesota Syringe Exchange Calendar (PDF)

Statewide Community-based Organizations
As a part of the State Targeted Response (STR) Grants through Department of Human Services (DHS), organizations were awarded funds to provide Naloxone overdose training and kits free of charge. The following community-based organizations provide naloxone training and kits free of charge:

• Steve Rummler HOPE Network - Call 952-943-3937 or sign up for training from the Steve Rummler HOPE Network.
• Rural AIDS Action Network (RAAN) - Call 320-257-3036.
• Red Door Clinic - Call 612-543-5555.
• Indigenous Peoples Task Force - Call 612-870-1723.
• LSS StreetWorks Collaborative - Call 612-354-3345 or email street.works@lssmn.org.