**Naloxone (Narcan) rapidly reverses opioid overdose** by attaching to opioid receptors and displacing opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, or morphine. This can restore breathing and consciousness, often within **2–3 minutes**. It does not reverse overdoses from non-opioid drugs, though it can still help if opioids are part of a mixed overdose.
### When a bystander should use it
Give naloxone immediately if opioid overdose is possible and the person:
- Cannot be awakened or is unusually unresponsive
- Is breathing very slowly, irregularly, gasping, or not breathing
- Has blue/gray lips or fingertips
- Has pinpoint pupils, especially with abnormal breathing
If uncertain, **use it—naloxone generally will not harm someone who has not taken opioids.**
### What to do
1. **Call emergency services** immediately.
2. Give naloxone according to the device instructions—commonly one nasal spray into one nostril.
3. Provide rescue breaths or CPR if needed; use an AED if available.
4. If there is no response after **2–3 minutes**, give another dose, alternating nostrils if using nasal spray. Multiple doses may be needed, especially with fentanyl.
5. Once breathing normally, place the person on their side and stay with them.
Naloxone may wear off in **30–90 minutes**, before the opioid does, so overdose symptoms can return. Emergency medical evaluation is essential. The person may also awaken confused or experience abrupt withdrawal, including vomiting, sweating, agitation, or pain.