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UW Tacoma recognizes that licit and illicit drug use is a part of our world and chooses to embrace a harm reduction approach instead of minimizing, condemning or stigmatizing drug use. Harm reduction is a spectrum of practical prevention strategies that reduce the likelihood or seriousness of alcohol or other drug related harm, and can range from abstinence to managed use. Not all UW Tacoma students use drugs, but for those who do, we just want you to be safe.

Opioid overdose can happen fast – in seconds. Naloxone is a drug that can reverse an opioid overdose, even while it’s happening. NARCAN is a brand name medication of a single dose of Naloxone, set up as a nasal spray, intended to help rapidly reverse an opioid overdose.

NARCAN was designed for people with no medical training. It is easy to use, safe to use even if opioids are not present (if you are unsure of an opioid overdose specifically is happening), works nearly instantly to revive someone during an overdose, and is available over the counter at most pharmacies.

NARCAN logo with words "opioid emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere"

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Signs of an Opioid Overdose

Opioid overdose can happen fast. If any one of these signs are present, call 911 and give NARCAN.

  • Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
  • Unusual and heavy sleepiness or unresponsiveness
  • Slow, shallow, or absent breathing
  • Choking or gurgling sounds
  • Limp body
  • Skin feels clammy and cold
  • Pale, blue, gray, or cold nails, lips or fingertips

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How to Give NARCAN

Step 1: Check for signs of opioid overdose. Gently shake the person and yell “Wake up!”. If the person does not wake and signs of opioid overdose are present, go to Step 2.

Step 2: Give NARCAN. Hold the nasal spray device with your thumb on the button of the plunger and insert the nozzle into either nostril. Press the plunger firmly to give the NARCAN dose. Each nasal spray device is one dose.

Step 3: Call 911 immediately after giving NARCAN.

Step 4: Watch and give if needed. Wait 2-3 minutes after the first dose to see if the person wakes up. If the person does not wake up, continue to give doses ever 2-3 minutes until they do. It is safe to keep giving doses.

Step 5: Stay with the person until an ambulance arrives, even if the person wakes up. Give another dose if the person becomes very sleepy again and can’t stay awake.

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How-To Videos

Watch these NARCAN manufacturer videos to learn how to give NARCAN during an overdose.

Resources

 
Graphic instruction on how to administer NARCAN

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NARCAN Access Form

Complete the NARCAN form to access free NARCAN on campus. Complete the video within the form and answer a few questions that help us monitor the level of need in our campus community. Responses will not be used to identify or report individuals, or determine eligibility to receive NARCAN.

Once you complete the form, the Health Promotion Specialist will reach out to you via your UW email address to schedule a time for you to pick up your NARCAN kits. The NARCAN Form is not anonymous however order recipient names are private. Contact the Specialist at madieb@uw.edu with questions and concerns.

 

NARCAN Order Form
 
Photo of NARCAN spray

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Good Samaritan Protection

In Washington State, anyone trying to help in good faith during a medical emergency is generally protected from civil liabilities by RCW 4.24.300. WA State’s 911 Good Samaritan Overdose Law RCW 69.50.315 gives additional, specific protections against drug possession charges:

  • If you seek medical assistance in a drug-related overdose, you cannot be prosecuted for drug possession.
  • The overdose victim is also protected from drug possession charges.
  • Anyone in WA State who might have or witness an opioid overdose is allowed to carry and administer naloxone. (RCW 69.41.095)

In Washington state, anyone who might have or witness an overdose can legally possess and administer naloxone (or NARCAN). Learn more about Good Samaritan protection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Does NARCAN nasal spray work if someone is not breathing?

A person does not need to be breathing for the NARCAN nasal spray to work. The medicine is absorbed by the nasal mucosa and does not need to be inhaled to work.

How do I store NARCAN nasal spray?

Store at room temperature or refrigerate, between 36 degrees F and 77 degrees F. Do not freeze it, protect it from light, and avoid excessive heat (above 104 degrees F).

Can you overdose of NARCAN nasal spray?

No, it is safe to keep giving doses every 2-3 minutes until the person wakes up or emergency personnel arrive.

What are possible side effects of NARCAN nasal spray?

People may experience withdrawal symptoms upon waking, such as shaking, sweating, nausea, feeling angry or wanting to use opioids. This is expected.

How long does NARCAN nasal spray stay in your system?

It usually starts working within minutes and lasts from 60 to 120 minutes. More than one dose may be needed, which is why getting immediate medical care is critical.

Do I need a prescription for NARCAN nasal spray?

No, it is available over the counter at most pharmacies.

How can I obtain NARCAN in the Tacoma Community?