No, Narcan isn’t given as a shot. It’s only available as a nasal (nose) spray. However, naloxone (the active drug in Narcan) is given as an injection. The naloxone injection is typically used in healthcare settings such as hospitals.
The main side effects of naloxone injection are opioid withdrawal symptoms similar to those seen with Narcan. To learn more, see the “Side effects explained” section below. The naloxone injection may also cause reactions at the site where the injection is given.