Narcan is a drug that contains Naloxone, a substance that is able to counteract the effects of opioid drugs, such as Morphine, Methadone, Tramadol or Heroin, in the body, especially during episodes of overdose.
Thus, Narcan is often used as an emergency medicine in cases of opioid overdose, avoiding the onset of serious complications such as respiratory arrest, which can be life-threatening within minutes.
While this drug may completely negate the effect of the drug in overdose and save a person's life, it is very important to go to the hospital to evaluate all vital signs and initiate other treatment if necessary. See how the treatment is done in case of overdose.
How to use Narcan
Narcan should ideally be administered only by a healthcare professional in the hospital, even in overdose situations. The fastest dosage form is by applying the medicine directly to the vein, giving effect within 2 minutes.
In some cases, the effect of the drug that caused the overdose may be longer than Narcan, which is approximately 2 hours, so it may be necessary to administer several doses during the treatment of an overdose. That way, the person needs to be hospitalized for at least 2 or 3 days.
In very rare cases, your doctor may prescribe Narcan for personal use, especially if there is a very high risk of overdose. However, the form of administration of the drug should be indicated by the physician beforehand, and the dose should be adapted according to the weight and type of drug used. The best way to avoid the complications of an overdose is always to avoid using the drug, so see how to combat drug use.
How to use Narcan Spray
The nasal spray Narcan is not yet for sale in Brazil, and can only be purchased in the United States of America, with medical indication.
In this form, the drug should be sprayed directly into one of the nostrils of the overdose. If there is no improvement in the picture, another spray can be repeated after 2 or 3 minutes. The sprays can be done every 3 minutes if there is no improvement and until the arrival of the medical team.
How Narcan Works
The effect of naloxone in Narcan is not yet fully understood, however, this substance seems to bind to the same receptors used by opioid drugs, decreasing its effect on the body.
Due to its effects, this medicine can also be used in the postoperative of surgeries, to reverse the effect of anesthesia, for example.
Possible side effects
The side effects of this medication are not yet fully understood, but some effects that may be related to its use include vomiting, nausea, agitation, tremors, feeling of shortness of breath, or changes in blood pressure.
Who should not use
Narcan is contraindicated for people who are hypersensitive to naloxone or any of the other ingredients of the formula. In addition, it should only be used in pregnant or breastfeeding women with indication of the obstetrician.
