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.
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 217.186 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.