Health Canada is warning that some naloxone kits may contain incorrect instructions. The advisory, issued earlier today, concerns take-home naloxone kits distributed by Canadian Hospital Specialties Ltd. The incorrect dosing information in these kits could affect the treatment’s effectiveness.
Naloxone is used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and restore breathing. If needed, a second dose can be administered 2 to 3 minutes after the first. However, the instructional cards included in some kits incorrectly suggest re-administration after 3 to 5 minutes.
Individuals with kits containing inaccurate information can request a revised instructional card. This issue affects both the nasal spray and injectable versions of the naloxone kits.