Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid poisoning caused by opioid drugs and other drugs contaminated with opioids. Naloxone is safe and easily given by a spray into the nose.
Opioids include morphine, codeine, oxycodone (e.g., Percocet), hydromorphone (e.g., Dilaudid), heroin, and fentanyl. Naloxone will not work for non-opioid drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy, gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), or alcohol. However, the illegal drug supply is unregulated and unpredictable. Many drugs in this area (including non-opioid drugs like cocaine) are being cut with powerful opioids like fentanyl.
Anyone who takes an illegal drug is at risk of opioid poisoning.
Who should get a naloxone kit? |
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It is recommended that anyone using any illegal drug or who is on long-term opioids have a naloxone kit. Friends and family members of people at risk should get kits and be trained on how to detect an opioid overdose and administer naloxone. Recognizing opioid poisoning signs, calling 911, and administering naloxone quickly can prevent injury and death. Don’t use alone. Naloxone saves lives but someone has to be there to give it and call 911. Use with someone you trust or call the National Overdose Prevention Service (NORS) at 1-888-688-NORS(6677). Always call 911:
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How to use naloxone |
| This demonstration video was developed by the Ontario Harm Reduction Network (OHRN) with support from the Provincial System Support Program at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Learn more about overdose response with naloxone on the OHRN website. |
How do I take care of my naloxone kit? |
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Make sure to store naloxone at room temperature and keep it out of direct sunlight. Don’t leave it in your car or other places it may be exposed to extreme cold or heat. Exchange your kit for a new one when it gets close to the expiry date. |
Where can I get a naloxone kit?
Individuals |
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In Ontario, naloxone is widely available for free through the Ontario Naloxone Program and Ontario Naloxone Program for Pharmacies. Eligibility incudes: people at risk of opioid poisoning, friends and family of people at risk, and others who may be able to respond other than in the line of work. Training is available and no health card is required. Many pharmacies in the KFL&A area offer free naloxone and training. Free nasal spray naloxone kits are available self-serve at reception at KFL&A Public Health offices in Kingston, Cloyne and Sharbot Lake. Eligible individuals can get free naloxone kits mailed to them after completing online training with NaloxoneCare.com Many community organizations in the KFL&A area have enrolled as Ontario Naloxone Program sites. They can provide naloxone and training to their eligible clients. Sites include:
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Workplace use |
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KFL&A Public Health may be able to provide naloxone training for staff and volunteers but is unable to provide naloxone kits for workplace use. Businesses or other organizations may be able to access workplace kits or training through the following options: Ontario Workplace Naloxone Program Program of Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skill Development. For a limited time is providing free training and nasal spray naloxone to eligible workplaces. React and Reverse - St John Ambulance Free training and nasal spray kits available for eligible sites and communities in Canada i.e. underserved communities, shelters and support organizations .
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For purchase |
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Ask your local pharmacy or usual supplier of pharmaceutical supplies. Contact the makers of Narcan directly. |
Free naloxone for businesses in Kingston |
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Naloxone may be available for free from Kingston Economic Development for local businesses for workplace use. |
For fire and rescue, police services and St. John Ambulance |
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Police and fire services and St John Ambulance branches in Ontario are eligible to receive naloxone to use in response to suspected opioid poisonings. In Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington, these agencies can register to access free nasal spray naloxone. Contact KFL&A Public Health for more information. Already enrolled? Contact KFL&A Public Health if you:
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Naloxone distribution by community organizations |
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Through the Ontario Naloxone Program (ONP), eligible organizations in the KFL&A area can work with KFL&A Public Health to get free naloxone kits and training to offer to their eligible clients. Please note: KFL&A Public Health cannot provide naloxone for use in the workplace. Eligibility requirements Eligible organizations include AIDS service organizations, Community Health Centers, outreach organizations, shelters, and withdrawal management programs, and other organizations or programs that can help fill a gap in naloxone access. Organizations must:
KFL&A Public Health staff will work with you through the enrollment process, provide required training and support you to ensure a smooth integration of naloxone distribution into your organization’s day-to-day activities. Contact KFL&A Public Health for more information.
Already a naloxone distribution site? Contact KFL&A Public Health if you:
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