Naloxone reverses the effects of an opioid overdose temporarily, restoring breathing in a few minutes and buying time for EMS to arrive. Saskatchewan residents who are at risk of an opioid overdose and/or might witness an opioid overdose, such as friends and family of people who use opioids, are eligible for free training and a free Take Home Naloxone kit. The training covers overdose prevention, recognition, and response, including how to administer naloxone.
Naloxone does not reverse the effects of non-opioids, such as stimulants (e.g. crystal methamphetamine or cocaine), benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine analogues (either medical or non-medical), or sedatives (e.g. gabapentin or xylazine). Naloxone will still reverse the effects of the opioid, so it is recommended to administer Naloxone in the event of an overdose.
Learn more about the Take Home Naloxone program and where to get a kit and training.