Frequently Asked Questions

Naloxone is a medicine that can stop the effects of an opioid overdose. It works by attaching to the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, kicking of the harmful opioid medication. This helps the person to quickly get back to normal breathing and prevents the overdose from killing them.  Naloxone can be given through a spray in the nose or by a shot, and it starts working right away.

WATCH THIS VIDEO TO LEARN MORE →

Individual needing Naloxone for themselves or someone they know: 

• Find Naloxone Near You
• SONORAN PREVENTION WORKS

Community Organization or Business:  

• ADHS Naloxone Request Form for Community Organizations

Yes, naloxone is generally safe to use and is not harmful if given to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose.

Common signs include: 

• Slowed Breathing: The person's breathing becomes slow, shallow, or irregular. 
• Extreme Sleepiness: The individual is hard to wake up or unable to stay awake. 
• Bluish Lips or Fingernails: The skin may turn bluish due to lack of oxygen. 
• Pinpoint Pupils: The person's pupils (the dark center of the eyes) become very small. 
• Unresponsive or Unconscious: They do not respond to stimuli or calls. 
• Gurgling, Choking or Snore-like Sounds: Noises that indicate difficulty breathing. 
• Pulse is slow, erratic, or has stopped.

Yes, in many places, including Arizona, getting naloxone from a pharmacy is becoming easier. Currently, Arizona has a standing order, which means that anyone can get naloxone through their local community pharmacy without obtaining a prescription.

The cost of naloxone can vary depending on factors such as the type of naloxone, and whether you have insurance. Through our participating pharmacies (view naloxone map) you can receive naloxone FREE at no cost.  Additionally, there are various community organizations that offer naloxone at no cost - Sonoran Prevention Works

1. Check for response 

2. Call 9-1-1 

3. Use naloxone 

4. Provide rescue breathing and basic life support as needed 

5. Place the person in the recovery position 

In Arizona, there are laws that protect people from getting in trouble with the law if they try to help someone who's in danger because of using drugs. These laws are there to make sure that people don't hesitate to get help when it's needed, even if they're worried about getting into trouble. 

Remember that rules can sometimes change. To make sure you have the most current and accurate information about naloxone and its laws in Arizona, it's a good idea to ask legal experts or look in legal books or websites. 

Yes, there are brief trainings that anyone can complete to learn how to recognize the symptoms of an opioid overdose, how to respond and how to administer naloxone.

Naloxone works very quickly.  After giving someone a dose of naloxone if there is no response after 2-3 minutes you should give a second dose in the other nostril.

Yes, naloxone works on all types of opioids and opiates, including Oxycodone, Morphine, Heroin, Fentanyl, Hydrocodone.  It works by removing the opioid from the pain receptors that they bind to. This results in reversing the life-threatening effects of an opioid overdose. 

Sometimes the person may need more than one dose of naloxone. It’s important that you stay with the person, until emergency responders arrive. 

1. Educate yourself and share accurate information. 

2. Start open conversations without judgment.

3. Use caring language and stories.

4. Support awareness campaigns and policies.

5. Offer nonjudgmental support to those affected. 

Yes, in many places, including Arizona, getting naloxone from a pharmacy is becoming easier. Currently, Arizona has a standing order, which means that anyone can get naloxone without a prescription.  

In the state of Arizona, there are generally no age restrictions for obtaining naloxone. The standing order in Arizona allows pharmacists to dispense naloxone without a prescription to individuals who are at risk of experiencing or witnessing an opioid overdose.

Naloxone should not be exposed to temperatures above 104°F or under 41°F for long periods of time.  

No, you are protected by the Good Samaritan laws and even if you have used drugs cannot get in trouble for calling 911.  

The person may become irritable, have nausea, vomit, fever, chills, or experience pain. Giving naloxone can cause someone to suddenly be in withdrawal.