Kern County, CA

Narcan is a nose spray that helps someone wake up if they are having an opioid overdose. It’s the brand name for a medicine called Naloxone.  

• Works fast – in 2 to 3 minutes
• Effects last 20–90 minutes
• No needles – just spray in the nose
• Safe for all ages, even kids
• No side effects if used by someone not on opioids
• Safe for pregnant women (but call 911 after)

Signs and Symptoms of an Overdose

If someone is having an opioid overdose, they may:

• Breathe very slowly (less than 1 breath every 6 seconds)
• Make deep snoring, gurgling, wheezing, or gasping sounds
• Not breathe at all
• Have blue or gray lips or fingertips
• Have a very faint or slow heartbeat
• Have pale, cold, or sweaty skin
• Have tiny pupils (called “pinpoint pupils”)
• Not wake up or respond to being shaken, pinched, or rubbed firmly on the chest (sternal rub)

If you see these signs, call 911 and give Narcan right away.

After Narcan is used, the person might:

• Feel sick or shaky
• Throw up or have stomach pain
• Be confused, upset, or angry
• Have chills or body aches

These feelings are normal. Stay calm, stay with them, and wait for help. They may need a second dose if symptoms come back.

Opioids and Overdose Risks

Opioids are the world's oldest-known drugs and are typically used for pain relief.

Most Common Forms of Opioids

• OxyContin
• Dilaudid/Hydromorphone
• Norco/Vicodin/Hydrocodone
• Codeine
• Methadone
• Heroin
• Fentanyl

Overdose Risks

• Variation in strength and purity of a drug (Example: laced with Fentanyl)
• Changing administration route (snorting to injecting)
• Mixing drugs. Includes mixing with alcohol, Benzodiazepine, and sleeping aids
• Method of administration
• Periods of abstinence/relapse (lower tolerance)
• Using alone

Who can get Narcan training? 

Anyone in Kern County age 12 or older.

Can I give Narcan to someone else?

Yes, in an emergency — but the kit should stay with the person who got the training.

Is it safe for kids and pregnant women?

Yes. Always call 911 after giving Narcan.

Can kids take it to school?

Check with your school district for rules.

Am I protected if I help someone?

Yes. California's Good Samaritan Law protects people who try to help during an overdose.

Statistics/Data

To view Overdose Data and Statistics for California, see the CDPH Data home page.