Naloxone saves lives
Naloxone is a fast-acting medicine that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Whether you’re someone who uses opioids, or know someone who does, knowing how to use naloxone could help you save a life.
What is naloxone?
Naloxone (sometimes known by brand names like Nyxoid or Prenoxad) is a medication that temporarily blocks the effects of opioids, such as heroin, fentanyl, morphine, codeine, and oxycodone.
It helps restore normal breathing in someone whose breathing has slowed or stopped due to an overdose.
Key facts:
- Works within 2 to 5 minutes
- Lasts for 30–90 minutes
- Has no harmful effects if given unnecessarily
- Only works for opioid-related overdoses
When should you use naloxone?
Use naloxone if you suspect someone is having an opioid overdose. Signs include:
- Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
- Blue or grey lips and fingertips
- Very small (pinned) pupils
- Snoring or gurgling sounds
- No response to voice or touch
Important: Always call 000 for an ambulance before giving naloxone.
Police will not be called to a drug overdose unless there is a threat of danger to ambulance officers or if the overdose becomes fatal and the person dies. Hospitals and doctors also DO NOT notify the police if you request medical attention for a suspected overdose.
How do you use naloxone?
There are two ways to give naloxone:
1. Nasal Spray – Nyxoid
- Peel open the pack
- Insert spray into one nostril
- Press the plunger once
- Wait 2–3 minutes; give a second dose if no response
2. Injection (into the muscle) – Prenoxad
- Draw up the dose using the syringe
- Inject into the outer thigh or upper arm
- Wait 2–3 minutes; give another dose if needed
Quick guides and demo videos:
- Nyxoid video and instructions (Insight QLD)
- Prenoxad video and instructions (Insight QLD)
Do I need medical training?
No. Anyone can administer naloxone – you do not need a prescription or a first aid certificate. When you collect it from a participating service, trained staff will explain how to use it safely, and 000 will guide you through it.
Where can I get naloxone?
Naloxone is available for free in NSW through the Take Home Naloxone Program. You can get it from:
- Selected Odyssey Community and Multicultural Programs Hubs (Blacktown, Campbelltown, Hornsby, Liverpool, Penrith, Redfern – view addresses here)
- Participating Non-Government Organisations
- Participating pharmacies
- Needle and Syringe Programs (NSPs)
You can view a full list of providers here.
Naloxone can save lives
Carrying naloxone is a simple way to be ready in case of an emergency. It’s safe, effective, and easy to use.
Naloxone is first aid for opioid overdose. With it, you could save someone’s life.
To access Naloxone from Odyssey, visit one of the following hubs and speak to one of our friendly team members:
Blacktown
Suite 102, Level 1 114/116 Main St, Blacktown NSW 2148
Campbelltown
Level 2/121 Queen St, Campbelltown NSW 2560
Hornsby
1 Ashley St, Hornsby NSW 2077
Liverpool
Suite 15, Level 4/13/15 Moore St, Liverpool NSW 2170
Penrith
109 Henry St, Penrith NSW 2750
Redfern
Ground floor 2/199 Regent St, Redfern NSW 2016
To find out more about the Take Home Naloxone Program click here.