Narcan: A Lifesaver in Our Community – And Yes, You’re Protected by Law

At Grasonville Health Services, we know that overdoses can happen to anyone—our friends, family, and neighbors. That’s why it’s so important to have Narcan (Naloxone) on hand and know how to use it. It can bring someone back from an opioid overdose within minutes, and in Maryland, you’re legally protected when you help. Narcan can ONLY reverse Opioid OD’s, but it won’t hurt – so when in doubt, give Narcan regardless.

Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law: You Won’t Get in Trouble for Helping

One of the biggest reasons people hesitate to call 911 during an overdose is fear—fear of getting in trouble for drug possession, outstanding warrants, or even just being there. But in Maryland, the Good Samaritan Law protects you.

If you call 911 to report an overdose or provide aid, you will not be arrested or prosecuted for:

• Drug or alcohol possession

• Possession of drug paraphernalia

• Being under the influence

This law applies whether you’re the one who overdosed or the one calling for help. The goal is to save lives, not punish people for seeking help.

If someone is overdosing, never be afraid to call 911. The law is on your side.

How to Recognize an Overdose

An opioid overdose doesn’t always look obvious. Signs to watch for:

– Unresponsive – Won’t wake up even if shaken or shouted at

– Slow or no breathing

– Gasping, gurgling, or not breathing at all

– Blue/gray lips or fingertips – Lack of oxygen

– Pinpoint pupils – Tiny, unresponsive pupils

If you see these signs, act immediately.

How to Use Narcan

Nasal Spray (Easiest & Most Common)

1. Lay the person on their back.

2. Tilt their head back slightly to open their airway.

3. Insert the nozzle into one nostril.

4. Press the plunger to release the medication.

5. Wait 2-3 minutes. If they don’t respond, give a second dose in the other nostril.

Injectable Narcan (If You Have It)

1. Fill the syringe with 1mL of naloxone.

2. Inject into a large muscle (thigh, upper arm, or buttocks) at a 90-degree angle.

3. Hold the needle in place for a few seconds before removing it.

4. If no response in 2-3 minutes, give another dose.

Check out this helpful video for injectable Narcan below:

Injectable Narcan How To

After giving Narcan, ALWAYS call 911. Even if the person wakes up, they still need medical care.

Where to Get Narcan in Maryland

You do NOT need a prescription in Maryland. Since 2017, there’s been a standing order that allows anyone to get naloxone from a pharmacy. You can also get it for free through local health departments and harm reduction programs.

Where to Find Narcan Near You:

– Most Maryland pharmacies (just ask at the counter)

– Local health departments and harm reduction organizations

– Maryland’s Overdose Response Program (ORP) (Find a training site)

If you’re not sure where to find it, reach out to us at Grasonville Health Services, and we’ll help.

Carrying Narcan is NOT Enabling – It’s Empowering

There’s a dangerous myth that having Narcan “encourages” drug use. That’s simply not true. People don’t plan to overdose, but it happens—often because of fentanyl-contaminated drugs. Narcan gives people a second chance.

If you carry Narcan, you’re not just prepared—you’re a potential lifesaver.

Have questions? Need help getting Narcan? Message us—we’re here to help & support you.