Pregnancy should not delay the use of naloxone during a suspected opioid overdose. However, concerns about the safety of naloxone during pregnancy may cause people to hesitate to administer naloxone.
OPA has created a new tool to increase awareness and build confidence in responding to an opioid overdose during pregnancy. It is intended for anyone who may be in a position to respond.
The tool addresses common concerns about naloxone use, and provides clear, practical guidance on responding to an opioid overdose, including important pregnancy-specific considerations.
Download and print the tool here, to promote that naloxone should be used during pregnancy for a toxicity event.
Disclaimer: This resource was developed by the Ontario Pharmacists Association (OPA) with funding from the Ontario Health Mental Health and Addictions Centre of Excellence, however, OPA retained full editorial autonomy throughout the development process. Please refer to OPA’s Commitment to Content Quality and Integrity for more information. This material is for general informational purposes only. It is not meant to be comprehensive and does not replace professional judgment and responsibilities nor is it intended to provide or take the place of medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, or legal advice. This tool does not represent an endorsement that any type of treatment or medication is safe, effective, or approved for use in any particular person. Please speak to your pharmacist, doctor, or other qualified healthcare professional for more information and/or guidance. This information is up to date as at the date of publication. OPA makes every effort to provide information that is accurate and timely but makes no guarantee in this regard. It is provided without warranty of any kind by OPA and OPA assumes no responsibility for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies therein. The decision for use and application of this document is the responsibility of the user. OPA assumes no liability for such use and application or any resulting outcomes. It is the responsibility of the pharmacy professional to use professional judgment in evaluating this material in light of any relevant clinical or situational data. OPA expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of reliance on the information contained in this resource. It is intended to supplement materials provided by regulatory authorities, and should there be any discrepancies, municipal, provincial, and federal laws, policies and guidelines shall prevail. Pharmacy professionals are encouraged to confirm information with additional resources. Unauthorized reproduction or use of this tool, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the express written permission of OPA.
