Substance guides

What is Narcan (naloxone)? How it works and how to get it

Published March 5, 2026 · 7 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals. Editorial process.

Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is a medication that reverses opioid overdoses within minutes. It has saved hundreds of thousands of lives and is now available over the counter without a prescription. If you or anyone in your life uses opioids — even prescription painkillers — having naloxone accessible could save a life.

How naloxone works

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist — it binds to opioid receptors in the brain more tightly than opioids themselves, displacing whatever opioid is present. When administered during an overdose, it rapidly reverses respiratory depression (the mechanism by which opioid overdose kills). Effects begin within 2-3 minutes. Naloxone has no effect on someone who does not have opioids in their system — it cannot be misused and has no abuse potential.

How to use Narcan nasal spray

Tilt the person's head back. Insert the nozzle into one nostril. Press the plunger firmly to release the full dose. If no response within 2-3 minutes, administer a second dose in the other nostril. Fentanyl overdoses may require 3 or more doses due to fentanyl's extreme potency. Always call 911 before or immediately after administering naloxone. Naloxone wears off in 30-90 minutes — if the opioid in the person's system lasts longer (which fentanyl often does), the overdose can return after the naloxone wears off. Medical monitoring is essential.

Where to get naloxone

Over the counter at most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) without a prescription — Narcan nasal spray costs $45-$75. Community organizations and harm reduction programs distribute naloxone for free in most states. NEXT Distro (nextdistro.org) offers free mail-order naloxone in many states. Many health departments and community health centers provide free naloxone and training. Some insurance plans and Medicaid cover naloxone at no cost.

Who should carry it

Anyone who uses opioids (including prescription painkillers), anyone who lives with or is close to someone who uses opioids, first responders, parents of teenagers (fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills are a growing threat to young people), and anyone who wants to be prepared to save a life. There is no downside to carrying naloxone and no risk in administering it.

Find a location near you

Shelby County Treatment Center

Alabaster, AL

Call 205-216-0200

Lighthouse of Tallapoosa County Inc

Alexander City, AL

Call 256-234-4894

South Central Alabama MHC

Andalusia, AL

Call 334-428-5050

Anniston Fellowship House Inc

Anniston, AL

Call 256-236-7229

Browse all facilities →

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NIDA · ASAM

Frequently asked questions

Is Narcan available over the counter?

Yes. Narcan (naloxone nasal spray) is available over the counter at most pharmacies without a prescription. Many community organizations also distribute it for free.

Can Narcan hurt someone who hasn't taken opioids?

No. Naloxone only affects opioid receptors. If administered to someone who has not taken opioids, it has no effect. There is no risk in administering naloxone when in doubt.

How many doses of Narcan does it take to reverse a fentanyl overdose?

Fentanyl may require 2-3 or more doses of naloxone due to its extreme potency. Always call 911 and continue administering additional doses every 2-3 minutes if there is no response.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.