Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, is a medication designed to quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. This drug can counteract the impact of various opioids, including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription pain medications. It works quickly to restore breathing and consciousness in an emergency. The medication is safe to use and does not lead to addiction.
Narcan’s Expiration Date
All pharmaceutical products, including Narcan, are assigned an expiration date by the manufacturer. This date signifies the period during which the product is guaranteed to maintain its full strength, quality, and purity when stored under recommended conditions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires manufacturers to conduct stability testing to establish these dates, ensuring the medication remains effective and safe throughout its shelf life.
The expiration date for Narcan nasal spray is typically printed on both the outer box and the individual nasal spray devices. While original formulations often had a 2-year shelf life, recent advancements have led to extensions. Newly manufactured Narcan nasal spray products now often carry a 4-year expiration date. Check the specific date printed on your product’s packaging, as extensions apply to newly produced batches.
Using Expired Narcan
While it is preferable to use unexpired Narcan, situations may arise where only an expired dose is available. In such emergencies, using expired naloxone is generally recommended over using no naloxone at all. Research indicates that naloxone often retains its effectiveness well beyond its printed expiration date, with some studies showing over 90% potency even decades past expiration.
The medication’s effectiveness might be somewhat reduced after its expiration, but it is not typically considered harmful to administer. If an expired dose is administered and the person does not respond, or if their symptoms return, additional doses from a new device may be necessary. Following administration, emergency medical attention should be sought by calling 911.
Storage and Disposal Guidelines
Proper storage of Narcan helps ensure its stability and effectiveness until its expiration date. The medication should be kept at room temperature, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Protect Narcan from extreme temperatures, including excessive heat (above 40°C or 104°F) and freezing conditions (below -15°C or 5°F), as well as direct light. Keeping the device in its original packaging until needed also helps preserve its integrity.
When Narcan expires or is no longer needed, proper disposal is important to prevent misuse and protect the environment. Many communities offer medicine take-back programs or accept expired medications at local pharmacies. If these options are unavailable, dispose of it in your household trash by first removing any personal information from the label. Then, mix the medication with an unappealing substance, such as used coffee grounds or kitty litter, and place it in a sealed bag or container before discarding it. Used nasal spray devices can be returned to their original box and placed in the trash, while used injectable naloxone should be disposed of in sharps containers.