Connecting Iowans to Overdose Prevention
Using Naloxone
Responding to an overdose
It may be hard to tell if someone is having an opioid overdose. Check for signs, but if you’re not sure, treat it like an overdose anyway. Naloxone does not cause harm if given to a person not experiencing an opioid overdose. Follow the steps below.
1
Check for signs of opioid overdose
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Won't wake up when you shout their name
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Won't wake up when you rub your knuckles hard on the center of their chest (sternal rub)
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Breathing is slow and/or shallow or not breathing at all
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The color of their skin, lips and fingernails is pale, blue or gray.
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It sounds like they’re choking or making snore-like gurgling noises
2
Call 9-1-1
If you suspect an overdose or aren’t sure what to do, call 911.
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Tell the dispatcher what is happening.
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Give them your exact location.
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Follow their instructions.
Iowa has a Good Samaritan law that offers some protections for people who call 911 for a drug overdose.
3
Give naloxone
To give someone naloxone nasal spray (also known as Narcan and other brand names), follow the steps below. These will also be on the naloxone packaging.
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Peel back the package to get the device.
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Place and hold the tip of the nozzle in either nostril.
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Press the plunger firmly to release the spray into the nose.
Give the person another dose of naloxone after 2-3 minutes if still not breathing or responsive until emergency workers arrive.
4
Give rescue breathing or CPR
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Breath is life. The goal of overdose reversal is to restore breathing.
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Provide rescue breathing if you can. Follow 911 operator instructions.
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Once breathing has returned, place the person in the recovery position: roll the person gently onto their side with the top leg bent.
5
Provide support
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Naloxone wears off after 30-90 minutes.
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Stay with the person until emergency workers arrive.
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Encourage the person to receive treatment to avoid re-overdosing or withdrawal symptoms.
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If you need someone to talk to, you can call or text 988 for support.
Other Important Information:
Naloxone Resources
Reversing Overdoses with Naloxone
Naloxone Frequently Asked Questions
Overdose Prevention & Response Toolkit