Narcan nasal spray was first approved by the FDA in 2015 as a prescription drug. In accordance with a process to change the status of a drug from prescription to nonprescription, the manufacturer provided data demonstrating that the drug is safe and effective for use as directed in its proposed labeling. The manufacturer also showed that consumers can understand how to use the drug safely and effectively without the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Naloxone has no effect on someone who does not have opioids in their system, and it is not a treatment for opioid use disorder. There are minimal risks associated with naloxone. Naloxone is not a controlled medication. It has no street value, and you cannot become addicted to it. If used by a person who doesn’t use opiates, at worst it might make them uncomfortable. The only exceptions would be for an individual who had an allergic reaction to naloxone or a woman who was pregnant or nursing.

No. Naloxone does not prevent deaths caused by other drugs such as benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium), bath salts, cocaine, methamphetamine or alcohol. Always call 911 if you suspect an overdose, because the victim may need other care.

No. Research studies have found that making naloxone available does not encourage people to use opioids more. In fact, some studies have shown that naloxone results in a decreased use of opioids. The majority of respondents in a survey felt that they would not inject more heroin despite having naloxone: “I’d just do my normal dose; don’t want to be dope-sick from naloxone”; “You’re not trying to kill yourself; you know your limits.”

Kloxxado has 8 mg of naloxone versus Narcan has 4 mg of naloxone nasal spray. With Kloxxado you’re getting twice as much naloxone per dose. This is important because 34% of opioid overdose reversals involved at least 2 doses of naloxone.

In Judaism, there is an obligation to save a life in jeopardy referred to as pikuach nefesh. This obligation, which in Hebrew means “saving a soul,” is considered a major value to uphold. Pikuach nefesh is derived from the biblical verse, “Neither shall you stand by the blood of your neighbor” (Leviticus 19:16). According to pikuach nefesh a person must do everything in their power to save the life of another. LEARN MORE

Additionally, there is a story in the New Testament that also supports saving a life whenever possible. In Luke 10:30-36, Jesus told a story of a man who was traveling and was attacked by robbers. The robbers left him naked and half-dead on the side of the road. A priest and later a Levite came down that road but crossed the road when they saw him and did not help him. It was not until a Samaritan came across the man that he received any help. After telling the story, Jesus posed the question of which of the three passersby’s was a neighbor to the injured man. This parable is where the popular phrase “good Samaritan” came from and reflects the biblical support of saving a life when possible.