Opioid overdoses can happen in a split second, and every moment counts. Below is a straight‑to‑the‑point guide that walks you through each action you need to take when you have a take‑home naloxone kit.
Step 1: Recognize an Opioid Overdose
First, look for shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, or a limp body. If the person can’t stay awake, you’re probably dealing with an overdose. Count breaths for ten seconds , fewer than eight means trouble.
Check the skin for a bluish tint on lips or fingertips. Cold, clammy skin is another red flag. When two or more signs appear, treat it as an emergency.
According to the CDC, timely recognition is the first step to saving a life. By now you should have spotted the warning signs.
Step 2: Prepare Your Take‑Home Naloxone Kit
Open the bag where you store the kit. Pull out the nasal spray, gloves, alcohol swabs, and the instruction card.
Check the expiration date printed on the spray. An expired dose may not work when you need it most.
Put on the disposable gloves , they keep you safe and keep the medication clean. Then remove the protective cap from the spray.
Make sure the spray is upright and the tip is clear. A quick visual check for cracks or leaks can prevent a wasted dose.
For a deeper look at opening and checking a kit, see How to Administer Naloxone at Home Step by Step. By now you should have a ready‑to‑use kit.
Step 3: Administer the First Dose Correctly
Hold the nasal spray upright with your thumb on the base and your index finger on the tip.
Tilt the person’s head back slightly and pinch the opposite nostril shut. Insert the tip into the open nostril.
Press firmly until you hear a click , that releases the full 4 mg dose.
After you spray, keep the person on their side in the recovery position. This helps any vomit drain away from the airway.
Watch for a gasp, cough, or normal breathing within 2, 3 minutes. If nothing changes, you may need a second dose.
These dosing guidelines follow standard medical recommendations. By now you should have given the first dose and be watching for a response.
Step 4: Monitor and Decide on Repeat Doses
Keep the person on their side and watch their breathing every minute.
If the chest doesn’t rise after 2‑3 minutes, prepare a second dose.
Use the opposite nostril for the repeat spray, or pull out the backup auto‑injector if you have one.
The recommended interval is every 2‑5 minutes, according to most health agencies. Do not give a third dose unless EMS says it’s needed.
Note the exact time of each dose on the notepad inside the kit. This log helps emergency crews.
Step 5: Call Emergency Services and Provide Support
Dial 911 the moment you suspect an overdose. Tell the dispatcher the address, that you have given naloxone, and any known substances.
Stay on the line. The operator may ask about breathing, pulse, and consciousness.
While you wait, keep the airway open by tilting the head back and lifting the chin. If breathing stops, start rescue breaths , one breath every five seconds.
Keep the person warm and calm. Speak softly and reassure them that help is on the way.
When EMS arrives, hand over the kit, the written notes, and a quick verbal summary of what happened.
Experts note that calling 911 is essential even if the person appears to recover.
Step 6: Follow Up with Professional Care
After EMS leaves, contact a local addiction specialist or your primary doctor. A follow‑up visit can address underlying substance use and prevent future overdoses.
Ask the medical team about getting a second naloxone kit, especially if the person uses high‑potency opioids like fentanyl.
Many states offer free or low‑cost naloxone through health departments. Check your area’s resources and refill your kit before it expires.
Keep the experience documented. Write down what triggered the overdose, how many doses you gave, and how long the effects lasted.
For more family‑focused guidance, see our website. By now you should have a clear plan for post‑overdose care.
FAQ
What should I do first if I think someone is overdosing?
Call 911 right away and look for shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, or a limp body. Those signs mean you need to act fast.
How much naloxone should I give for an adult?
The standard first dose is a 4 mg nasal spray, or 0.4 mg via intramuscular injection, depending on the device you have.
Can I give naloxone to a child?
Yes. Most guidelines recommend the same 0.4 mg injectable dose for children, but weight‑based dosing may apply for infants.
How long does naloxone’s effect last?
It can wear off in 20 to 90 minutes, so keep watching the person and be ready to give a second dose if breathing slows again.
Do I need a prescription to get naloxone?
In most states you can obtain naloxone over the counter or via a standing order from a pharmacist, so no prescription is required.
What if the person doesn’t respond after two doses?
Call 911 again, continue rescue breathing if needed, and tell the responders you’ve already given two doses.
If you want a trained team to walk you through every step, call Next Step Intervention at (949) 545‑3438. Our experts can set up a family plan, provide kits, and coach you on how to act when seconds count.