Naloxone: A Spray Away From Saving a Life

Opioid overdoses can happen anywhere — even here in Asotin County.

You don’t have to be a doctor to save a life. You just have to be ready. Naloxone is available as a nasal spray to help reverse an opioid overdose in minutes — including overdoses caused by powerful drugs like fentanyl. It’s safe, easy to use, and available at Asotin County Health District or your local pharmacy. If someone you know overdoses, naloxone gives them a second chance — and buys time for emergency help to arrive.

What is naloxone?

A life-saving nasal spray that can help reserve the effects of an opioid overdose.
Works quickly — often within 2–3 minutes.
Safe to use, even if you’re not sure it’s an opioid overdose.
Has no effect if opioids aren’t present.
Easy for anyone to administer — no medical training required.

Why Carry naloxone?

Overdoses happen to people of all ages and backgrounds — including those prescribed painkillers.
Fentanyl is being found in counterfeit pills, powders,
Naloxone saves lives — it’s that simple.
Being prepared could save a family member, a friend, or a neighbor.
You could be the reason someone gets a second chance.

Signs of an Opioid Overdose:

Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing.
Blue or gray lips and fingernails.
Won’t wake up or respond.
Cold, clammy skin.

If you see these signs:

• Call 911 immediately.
• Use naloxone if available.
• Stay with the person until help arrives.

How to Get naloxone

Available at:

• Asotin County Health District: 
102 1st Street, Asotin, WA
• Asotin County Health District Kiosk
: 719 5th Street, Clarkston, WA
• Over-The-Counter or by prescription (May be Free with Insurance and/or Medicaid) at Your Local Pharmacy
• Mail Order at phra.org/naloxone

How to Use Nasal naloxone:

Assess for unresponsiveness.
Call 911 immediately.
Tilt the person’s head back.
Insert the nasal spray fully into a nostril.
Once you are ready to administer the dose, press the plunger firmly to release the dose.
Support their breathing (rescue breaths).
If no response after 2–3 minutes, use another dose if available.
When the person responds place them into rescue position.
Stay with them until EMS arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I be sued for giving someone naloxone?
A: No. Washington, Idaho, and most of the 50 states have a Good Samaritan Law that protects you when you help someone during an overdose emergency.

Q: What does/does naloxone not work on?
A: Naloxone only works on opioids. It’s used to reverse overdoses caused by substances like fentanyl, oxycodone, and heroin — not alcohol or meth. Still not sure? Call 911 and use it anyway — it’s safe even if opioids aren’t involved.

Q: What happens if someone is not overdosing and you give them naloxone?
A: Naloxone is safe to use—even if someone hasn’t taken opioids.
 Naloxone can reverse an opioid overdose and won’t harm someone if opioids aren’t present. Naloxone is safe and can be used by anyone, any age, in an emergency.

Q: Is naloxone only for people who use drugs?
A: No. Overdoses can happen to anyone — including those with legal prescriptions. Carrying naloxone is about being prepared, not passing judgment.

Q: Does naloxone work on fentanyl overdoses?
A: Yes. Naloxone can reverse fentanyl overdoses. Some cases may require more than one dose, but naloxone is still the best first step.