An overdose happens when someone takes too much of an opioid. They become unconscious and their breathing begins to shut down. If an overdose is not reversed, it’s likely that this person will stop​ ​breathing and die. That’s why it’s important to ​give naloxone quickly when you suspect an opioid overdose.

Naloxone is a very safe drug.

Even though naloxone only reverses opioids, it’s safe to use even if you’re not sure what someone has ​taken, or you don’t know why you can’t wake them up.

Storage

To take care of your ​naloxone, try to keep it at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. It can freeze solid ​if it gets cold enough, but you can use it again after it thaws.

Expired naloxone is safe to use, but it’s best ​to ​replace after the date on the package. Refer to the specific product package for detailed information.


Kentucky’s Good Samaritan Laws

KRS 217.1​86 provides liability protection for people providing or administering an opioid antagonist in good faith during a suspected opioid overdose. 

KRS 218A​ provides immunity for drug possession and use offenses when seeking medical assistance for overdoses. These protections do not apply to outstanding warrants, probation or parole violations, or other non-drug related crimes.

To activate these protections, the caller must tell the 911 dispatcher that they believe they are responding to an ​overdose.