Naloxone kits and training

Naloxone is a life-saving medicine that reverses the effects of opioid drugs like heroin, methadone, morphine, and fentanyl. It helps a person start breathing again during an overdose.

Naloxone quickly blocks opioids from attaching to the brain's receptors. This stops the overdose and helps restore normal breathing. Its effects start within 2-3 minutes and last around 20-40 minutes, long enough for emergency help to arrive.

Anyone can give naloxone. You don't need to be a medical professional. We provide free naloxone training so you can feel confident using it in an emergency.

Yes, naloxone is very safe. If given to someone who hasn't taken opioids, it will not harm them. It only acts on opioids in the body.

Naloxone comes in two easy-to-use forms: 

• Injection: given into a muscle, usually the thigh or upper arm
• Nasal spray: sprayed once into each nostril 

Both are small, portable kits designed for use in emergencies.

Naloxone works for around 20-40 minutes, but opioids can stay in the body for much longer. The person may need more doses or emergency medical help, so always call 999 even if they seem to recover.

Yes. Because opioids often last longer in the body than naloxone, the person could stop breathing again once the medicine wears off. If you administer naloxone, you should stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives, and be ready to give another dose if needed.

We offer free naloxone kits and training to anyone in Stoke-on-Trent. Just ask your Recovery Worker or drop in at reception. 

Naloxone is also available at participating pharmacies and other drug and alcohol services nationwide.

If you think someone has overdosed on opioids - or you're not sure - give them naloxone straight away. It's better to give it than to wait. 

1. Call 999 immediately (if you haven't already) 
2. Put the person in the recovery position 
3. Stay with them until help arrives 
4. If they don't wake up within 2-3 minutes, give them another dose.

No, naloxone only works on opioids. It won't reverse overdoses from alcohol, benzodiazepines, or stimulants, but it's always safe to use if opioids might be involved.