How Do I Reverse An Overdose Using Naloxone?

Posted on September 12, 2022 | Updated on September 30, 2025

Kaela Cote-Stemmermann

Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is used to reverse drug overdoses. (Chicago Tribune/ Contributor/Getty Images)

Overdose deaths have been on the rise in D.C. since 2015, mostly due to opioids. A study by D.C.’s chief medical examiner found that 96% of overdose deaths in 2022 involved fentanyl – replacing heroin as the District’s most prevalent drug. The cheap and very dangerous synthetic opioid is often laced in other substances and can be unknowingly ingested.

The city has responded by making Naloxone – an overdose-reversing medication – more readily available. Now, residents can get it for free without a prescription or ID at pharmacies across the city, or get it mailed to them.

HealthHIV has this explainer on how to administer the med to someone experiencing an overdose. (Note: those helping in an overdose emergency are protected against drug charges.) Here’s the rundown:

🚩 Step 1: Determine if someone is overdosing. Symptoms include infrequent or lack of breathing, pale skin, or a blue-gray tinge to the lips or fingertips. Naloxone will not hurt someone not experiencing an overdose.

🚩 Step 2: Have someone nearby call 911. Meanwhile, begin rescue breaths until emergency responders arrive. Do NOT give chest compressions.

🚩 Step 3: Administer Naloxone. After the first two rescue breaths, spray the Naloxone into a nostril. Continue rescue breaths. If they do not respond in three minutes, administer another dose.

Residents can also find treatment and free counseling services by calling 1-(888)-793-4357.

Free Naloxone is also available in Virginia and Maryland.