Naloxone (NARCAN)
Naloxone available for emergency use at UNB
Naloxone (also called NARCAN) is a fast-acting medication that provides a short-term reversal of the effects of opioid overdose.
Naloxone nasal spray kits are available at multiple locations on our Fredericton and Saint John campuses, including our residences and Moncton site.
If you suspect someone is experiencing a drug overdose, contact emergency services by calling 911 and administer naloxone if available.
Quick info
What is naloxone
- Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that provides a short-term reversal of the effects of opioid overdose and does not affect any of the other body systems.
- Opioids include street drugs such as heroin and fentanyl, as well as many prescription medications commonly used to manage pain, such as Tylenol #3, morphine and Dilaudid.
- Naloxone is safe for all ages, cannot be used improperly and does not create dependence.
- Naloxone only works with opioids. There are no negative effects if administered to someone who is not having an opioid overdose.
Where to find naloxone on our campuses
- Naloxone kits are available in multiple locations on our campuses. Kit locations are identified on the following maps, which can be accessed on the UNB Safe App during an emergency.
- Kits are also available:
- In the cafeteria of the Moncton site
- At the front desk in residence halls - co-located with first aid kits
- With UNB Security – team members have naloxone kits and are trained in the use and administration
Signs of opioid overdose
Signs of opioid-related overdose include:
- Unresponsive or unable to wake up
- Slow or weak breathing
- Extreme drowsiness
- Pale, clammy skin
- Blue or gray lips and fingertips
- Chocking, snoring or gurgling sounds
- Tiny pupils
How to respond
If you suspect an overdose, take the following steps:
- Call 911.
- Refer to the Emergency Assistance Map in the UNB Safe app to locate the nearest naloxone kit on campus or call UNB Security who carry naloxone at (506) 453-4830 (Fredericton) or (506) 648-5675 (Saint John).
- Administer naloxone if available.
- Stay with the person until help arrives.
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act
The Canadian Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act may provide some legal protection for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose situation. Protection may apply to the person experiencing the overdose, the person calling for help, and anyone else present at the scene. The Act encourages people to call 911 during an overdose.
Training opportunities
- Free online training is offered by Workplace Safety & Prevention Services.
- Naloxone training sessions are available on campus. Learn more about opioid overdose, how to administer naloxone effectively, and how to access take-home kits. Information about upcoming sessions and how to register will be updated on this website and available by contacting Counselling Services or the Student Health Centre.
Supports for our community
- Students who require support related to opioid use and risk for overdose can reach out to UNB Counselling Services for support anytime by email at counsel@unb.ca or by phone at 506-453-4820.
- Anyone worried about a struggling individual can make a referral to the UNB Student Intervention Team (SIT) by emailing sit@unb.ca.
- Free, 24/7 online support through Togetherall is available to all students.
- Faculty and staff who require support can contact the Employee and Family Assistance Program EFAP, which is available to employees.
- Community-based support is also available through provincial Addiction and Mental Health Services.
- To learn more, visit Naloxone – Canada.ca
