What is naloxone?
Naloxone is a lifesaving medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
It can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, although it is a prescription-only medication, any person in the UK can carry and administer Naloxone for the purpose of saving a life.
Where can I get free naloxone?
To help reduce drug-related deaths we provide free overdose response naloxone kits to people at risk of an opioid overdose, their family and friends, and members of the public who could help prevent an overdose.
To access a naloxone kit:
- Visit your local Turning Point hub
- Ask your local pharmacy
- Order one through our Naloxone Click and Deliver service
Where can I access naloxone training?
Contact your local Turning Point service to ask about individual and group naloxone training. We now also offer overdose training for Young People for nasal naloxone.
What are the signs of an opioid overdose?
There are five signs that you should look out for that signal someone could be having an overdose.
If someone has overdosed, always call 999 for an ambulance.
If there is someone else with you, get them to call while you administer naloxone. Stay with the person until the ambulance arrives.
Unresponsive
They don't wake when you call loudly or shake their shoulder.
Breathing is shallow or stopped
Snoring or rattling breath
It may sound like they are asleep but snoring can be a sign someone is overdosing and struggling to breath.
Skin is pale or ashen
Lips and fingernails are blue or grey
How can I reduce the risk of overdose?
- Avoid using alone.
- Try a test dose first, especially after a period of abstinence.
- Consider smoking rather than injecting your drugs.
- Don't mix drugs, especially depressants.
- Think about getting on a script - contact your local service to discuss your options.
- Learn how to use naloxone and always carry a naloxone kit.