Naloxone saves lives. Have it on hand.
If you think someone is experiencing an opioid overdose, call 9-1-1 immediately and give them naloxone.
Last year, over 2,250 reported overdoses were reversed in Maine by community members. We all have a role to play in preventing an accidental overdose. Even if you don’t use drugs or you don’t think you know people who do, keeping naloxone on hand means you could save a life in an emergency, and you are helping reduce stigma by normalizing this life-saving public health medication.
Accidental overdose can happen to anyone using substances, whether occasionally, regularly, or for the first time. When it happens, having naloxone on hand can reverse the overdose and save a life.
What is naloxone?
Naloxone (commonly referred to as Narcan™) is a medication to reverse an opioid-related overdose. It blocks the effects of opioids on the brain, and, if used in time, restores normal breathing and saves the person’s life. Naloxone can be sprayed into the nose or is available as an injection. Sometimes more than one dose of naloxone is needed to reverse the effects of an overdose.
Can naloxone be harmful?
Naloxone will not cause harm if someone is not experiencing an opioid overdose. It is not addictive and it has no abuse potential. There is no minimum age to use it, and having it on hand is no danger to adults or children.
Where can I get naloxone in Maine?
There are many places to get naloxone for yourself, a loved one or your organization. It is important to have it on hand and accessible in the case of an opioid overdose emergency.
Anyone in Maine can get the nasal spray without a doctor’s prescription by asking the pharmacist. Naloxone costs up to $150 per kit without insurance. Many health insurance plans cover all or most of the cost of naloxone if you have a prescription, including MaineCare.
For anyone who wants to be able to prevent an accidental opioid overdose in their community.
If you or a loved one are being prescribed opioids, request a prescription for naloxone to go with it. Your insurance may cover it partially or completely. Naloxone is covered by MaineCare.
For people taking a prescription opiate, such as OxyContin (oxycodone), Vicodin, Norco or Lortab (hydrocodone with acetaminophen), Percocet (oxycodone and acetaminophen) or tramadol.
To search organizations that distribute free naloxone, visit: https://getmainenaloxone.org
Priority for individuals may be given to people who use drugs and loved ones. Individuals, community groups, businesses and organizations can all use the site to find their nearest naloxone distributors.
Each county in Maine has a local Liaison who can connect you to resources and provide free naloxone. Find your Liaison.
For anyone using substances or loved ones.
How do I use naloxone?
For a 30-second explanation of how to use nasal naloxone, watch this video from CDC:
For an explanation of how to use injectable naloxone, watch this video.
Steps to use nasal naloxone
- Call 9-1-1. Emergency medical care may be necessary even after using naloxone.
- Place your thumb on the plunger and your fingers on either side of the nose tube.
- Gently insert the nozzle in one nostril of the person.
- Press the plunger to spray the entire dose of naloxone into one nostril.
- If there is no response in 2-3 minutes, use an additional dose, alternating nostrils. Repeat if necessary.
- Stay with the person while you wait for the paramedics to arrive.
To access more training:
- Download the OD-ME mobile app
- Watch opioid response training videos from Maine Access Points
- Find an in-person training from an organization in your area or your local OPTIONS Liaison