Are There Narcan Side Effects?

If you or someone you know has overdosed on opioids, you might know that Narcan can be a life-saving drug. Narcan, or naloxone, can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. However, results are temporary and medical attention is necessary relatively quickly to prevent the overdose from continuing. You also have to deal with a few Narcan side effects. Of course, a more long-term solution to overcoming addiction is getting drug overdose treatment and therapies.

How Does Narcan Work?

Narcan, which is delivered intranasally as a spray, attaches itself to opioid receptors and immediately reverses and blocks the effects of the drug. It is very successful in returning normal breathing capabilities if your breathing has slowed or stopped due to overdose. Narcan is prefilled and you don’t need a syringe to deliver it. You only need to be lying on your back and someone can spray the Narcan into one nostril. Besides being very effective, another of its benefits is that there are few Narcan side effects.

Narcan Side Effects

Narcan side effects are minimal, however, according to the FDA, you run a risk of your blood pressure increasing. You can also develop body pain and headaches. Additionally, you can also suffer nasal congestion, dryness, edema, and swelling. However, Narcan use can also lead to opioid withdrawal symptoms, which can become uncomfortable. Withdrawal symptoms can include headaches, nausea, vomiting, tremors, increasing heart rate, and issues with blood pressure. While usually not life-threatening, a medical professional should monitor you if you have used Narcan, particularly if you show signs of withdrawal. In general, however, Narcan is a very safe medication that can save your life temporarily while you await proper medical care and subsequent addiction treatment.

Treatments to Overcome Addiction

While Narcan can save your life in an emergency situation, you need a different approach to overcome your addiction. Getting treatment at a quality treatment center such as Beaches Recovery can be life-changing. You can choose to check into our facility for residential treatment, but depending on your situation, you might need intensive outpatient treatment instead. As your recovery progresses, you can benefit from the support provided with our aftercare program, including our transitional living and sober living programs. At Beaches Recovery, we offer individualized treatment to help you fight your addiction and provide the tools necessary for a healthy, substance-free life, where you don’t need to worry about Narcan side effects. Our treatments, which help heal the whole person, include:

• Dual diagnosis treatment for patients dealing with co-occurring mental health disorders
• Cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy
• Individual, group, and family therapy
• PTSD and trauma therapy
• Art therapy
• Fitness therapy

If you have suffered an opioid overdose and Narcan was used to save your life, it might be time to make the decision to seek help. Getting treatment can help you avoid Narcan side effects and get your life back on track. Call Beaches Recovery today at 866.605.0532 and let us help you with your recovery.