How Long Does Naloxone Last: Duration and Administration

Naloxone (Narcan) is a life-saver because it prevents opioid overdose. Naloxone blocks the effects of opioids but only stays in the body for 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the way Naloxone is administered. But did you know that overdose can happen even after naloxone has worn off? This guide will explain how long naloxone stays in the body, how to administer it, and what steps to take if you witness someone overdosing.

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How Does Naloxone Work?

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist. This means that it reverses the effects of opioids by attaching itself to the opioid receptors. When someone is overdosing, opioids hijack the system by slowing the central nervous system CNS), which can result in coma or death. Naloxone blocks these effects and helps the system run back normally. It is an essential part of emergency opioid treatment. 

How Long Does Naloxone Last?

Naloxone’s effects last about 30 to 90 minutes. However, this can differ depending on how naloxone is delivered to a patient. When delivered through the nasal route, its effects last a few hours. 

It has a half-life of about 30 to 80 minutes, which means naloxone leaves the system quickly. In a few days (1 to 3 days), all traces of naloxone will leave the body. It is essential to know:

• Opioids’ actions last longer than naloxone’s, which means that overdose is still possible even after administering naloxone, so knowledge of early signs of opioid overdose is essential. 
• You can administer more than one dose if you feel like the patient is still in a state of overdose. The re-dosage can be done within the course of a few minutes because naloxone usually works pretty quickly (2 to 3 minutes). 
• Naloxone is not equal to medical attention. After you have administered naloxone, call 911 immediately so that professionals can take care of the overdose.
• Naloxone is also effective for prescription opioids like hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine, etc. If you observe signs of overdose, feel free to administer naloxone.
• Naloxone only works for opioid overdose, meaning that it will not work for cocaine or other stimulants.
• Even if you are not sure whether someone is overdosing on opioids, you should still administer it because naloxone is not harmful (unless someone is allergic to it).

How to Administer Naloxone?

Naloxone nasal spray is the most common and convenient non-invasive method. Any person without a medical background can administer it. There are four administration routes for naloxone:

• Nasal route
• Intravenous (IV) route
• Intramuscular route
• Subcutaneous route

Apart from nasal spray, the other delivery routes may not be available to everyone, and they cannot be administered without a healthcare provider because they involve syringes.

Naloxone Nasal Spray (Narcan)

Commonly referred to as Narcan, naloxone spray can be given in the following steps:

• Ensure that the person is lying on their back with their head tilted back
• Taking the spray out
• Putting the thumb on the plunger
• Positioning the nozzle inside the nostril
• Pushing the plunger firmly to release the liquid
• Make the person lie on their side
• If they remain unresponsive for 2 to 3 minutes, repeat the procedure. 

Opioid Overdose Reversal Medications

How Quickly Does Naloxone Work?

Naloxone works within 2 to 5 minutes. Due to its fast-acting nature, naloxone can reverse overdose instantly. If the signs of overdose do not subside, administer another dose of Narcan.

Is Naloxone a Long-term OUD Treatment?

No, naloxone is not used as part of long-term OUD treatment. It is only used as a life-saving intervention to prevent opioid overdose. Medication-assisted treatment is an FDA-approved comprehensive treatment. It includes the following medications:

• Naltrexone Tablet(ReVia)
• Naltrexone injections (Vivitrol)
• Buprenorphine (Subutex/Sublocade)
• Buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone)

If you are unsure about how to stop yourself from taking opioids, you have the following options at our drug rehab in New Jersey:

• Medication-Assisted Treatment
• Behavioral Therapies
• Group Support Sessions
• Government and commercial insurance like Blue Cross Blue Shield covered Sublocade, Suboxone, and Naltrexone Treatments. 

We also offer specialized targeted therapies for different groups of people:

• Pregnant Women Treatment
• LGBQT+ Addiction Treatment
• Student Addiction Treatment
• Criminal Justice Addiction Treatment
• Veterans Addiction Treatment

We also accept most federal, state, and privately-funded insurance offers. So feel free to get treatment at ChoicePoint by calling 844.445.2565 or entering your information here. 

Free Addiction Assessment

Please note that this assessment is an initial self-screening and is not meant to be a medical assessment or clinical diagnosis of addiction. For proper diagnosis and treatment, schedule an appointment with ChoicePoint.

FAQs on Naloxone

Naloxone is an important medication that can be taken over the counter. For more queries, read the section below.

How Do I Stop an Overdose Without Narcan?

If naloxone (Narcan) is unavailable, do chest compressions or perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. In the meantime, you should call 911 for instant medical support. Do not try to give them other drugs like stimulants, as they can worsen the condition. Only naloxone can reverse opioid overdose. Having it in your first-aid kit is a good idea. 

What Happens if You Give Naloxone to Someone Who Doesn’t Need It?

Naloxone is not harmful to those who do not have opioids in their system. Therefore, if you suspect an overdose, you can give naloxone (Narcan) without worrying about causing further issues. 

Can You Re-OD After Getting Narcan?

Absolutely. One can certainly overdose after getting Narcan if medical help is not given. Narcan’s half-life is much shorter than most opioids, which is why opioids can easily take over if the effects of Narcan wear off. 

Can I Self-Administer Narcan?

Technically, anyone, including yourself, can administer Narcan. However, relying on self-administration is not a wise decision. It is highly unlikely to remain conscious during an opioid overdose. Training others around you to use Narcan is a better option.

References 

1. Jordan, M. R., & Morrisonponce, D. (2023). Naloxone. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441910/#:~:text=The%20half%2Dlife%20of%20naloxone
2. Rzasa Lynn, R., & Galinkin, J. (2018). Naloxone dosage for opioid reversal: current evidence and clinical implications. Therapeutic Advances in Drug Safety, 9(1), 63–88.
   https://doi.org/10.1177/2042098617744161