How to use a naloxone nasal spray 

The naloxone nasal spray reverses the effects of opioid drugs like heroin, morphine, methadone and fentanyl.

What is naloxone?

Naloxone reverses the effects of opioid drugs like heroin, morphine, methadone and fentanyl.

Naloxone is available in injection (Prenoxad) and nasal spray form.

There are two types of naloxone nasal sprays that WithYou services may give to you:

  • Nyxoid nasal spray

  • Nasal spray 1.26mg ('the pebble')

Nyxoid nasal spray

Nasal spray 1.26mg ('the pebble')

If you suspect someone has overdosed

If you suspect someone has overdosed, it’s always best to administer naloxone because it won’t harm them.

Drugs bought illicitly can contain a mixture of substances, including opioids, so use naloxone if you have it by following these steps.

Spot the signs of an overdose

Step 1

Call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Make sure it's safe for you to approach the person who has overdosed.

If you have Nyxoid, peel off the back of the pack. (image B)

If you have Nasal spray 1.26mg ('the pebble'), open the inner packaging by first removing the rubber band, then pressing at the centre of both flat sides of the plastic pebble to open. (image A)

Remove the nasal spray and place it within easy reach.

Naloxone Instructions Nasal 2

Step 2

Lay the person on their back.

Support the back of the neck, and let the head tilt back.

Clear away anything you see blocking their nose.

Naloxone Instructions Nasal 3

Step 3

Hold the spray as shown — first two fingers either side of the nozzle, thumb ready to push the plunger.

Don’t press before use – each spray only contains a single dose.

Naloxone Instructions Nasal 4

Step 4

Gently insert the spray into one nostril. Press firmly on the plunger until it clicks and gives the dose.

Remove the spray from the nostril. If possible, note which nostril you used.

If the person is still unconscious after 2-3 minutes, use a new spray to give a dose in the other nostril.

If the person comes round...

  • they may become distressed or angry – encourage them to stay calm
  • tell them you have given them naloxone
  • explain that the naloxone will wear off after 20-30 minutes and they may go back into overdose
  • stay with them until the ambulance arrives – try not to let them take more drugs as they risk overdosing again
  • hand any used naloxone to ambulance staff
  • keep yourself safe at all times

If the person goes back into overdose...

Give them another dose of naloxone every 2-3 minutes if needed.