A hand holding a NARCAN spray and box.

What's NARCAN?

NARCAN is a nasal spray medicine that blocks the harmful effects of opioids on the brain. Even if opioids are not involved with the overdose, it won't cause any harm. During an opioid emergency, it can take only four minutes for brain damage to occur after someone stops breathing, and death can result in another four-to-six minutes. NARCAN can reverse the effects of an opioid emergency by restoring breathing while waiting for emergency personnel to arrive. 

Carrying Narcan can save lives

Whether you use opioids, care about someone who does, or just care about those in your community, it’s important to be prepared if you encounter someone who's experiencing an opioid overdose. You can reverse an opioid overdose if you carry NARCAN and act quickly.

Image Description

 An icon of a nasal spray with the number one next to it.

 Narcan nasal spray is a ready-to-use device of a single dose. Do not test the device and discard after single use.

 An icon of a first aid kit.

 Carry NARCAN—or keep it in a place where everyone knows where it’s stored.

 An icon of a clock.

 It is safe to give NARCAN every two-to-three minutes until the person wakes up or emergency services arrive. NARCAN is safe to use even if opioids are not present. 

 Multiple bottles of Narcan.

 More than one dose of NARCAN be be used if needed. NARCAN starts working within a few minutes and lasts for up to 120 minutes. Always call 9-1-1 after giving the first dose.

Where can you get NARCAN?

NARCAN (and other alternatives) is widely available in many physical and online locations:

  • Over-the-Counter: NARCAN can be purchased over-the-counter (or online) at many stores with pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and Target.
  • Santa Clara County Opioid Overdose Prevention Project (SCCOOPP): Free NARCAN kits and training are available through SCCOOPP's mail-in program. Call 408-272-6055 or email SCCOOPP@hhs.sccgov.org for more information.
  • Harm Reduction Program: The County of Santa Clara Harm Reduction Program provides services and supplies free of cost for the community, such as NARCAN, fentanyl testing strips, and treatment. This program is anonymous and confidential.
  • Your Doctor: If you have been prescribed high-dose opioids, talk to your doctor about co-prescribing NARCAN.