Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Narcan Nasal (Naloxone).
Non-opioid overdoses: Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) does not reduce the effects of an overdose caused by other medications such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines, stimulants, alcohol, or other sedatives. Giving Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) to a person who is unconscious due to a non-opioid overdose is not likely to cause them more harm.
Opioid dependence: When given to a person who has been using opioids for a long time, Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) may cause withdrawal symptoms similar to stopping the opioid suddenly. These symptoms can include body aches, diarrhea, nausea, nervousness, restlessness, runny nose, sneezing, goose bumps, shaking, shivering, nausea, stomach cramps, fast or irregular heart rate, Fever, sweating, increased blood pressure, and possible seizures.
Rebound opioid toxicity: The effects of Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) are shorter than the effects of opioids. As a result, symptoms of overdose may reappear when Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) wears off. Additional doses of Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) may be required.
Recent surgery: Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) should be used with caution in someone who has had recent surgery. Side effects such as blood pressure changes, increased heart rate, irregular heartbeat, fluid build-up in the lungs and Heart Attack have been reported.
Pregnancy: The effects of Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) on a developing baby are unknown. Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if Narcan Nasal (Naloxone) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Narcan Nasal (Naloxone), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.