Narcan now in drugstores, but the life-saving spray is $45. Here's where to get it free.

The life-saving naloxone nasal spray is now available over the counter at local pharmacies, but a package of two doses can cost almost $45, leaving many asking if the product can feasibly make it to the hands of those who need it.

Naloxone, also known by its brand name Narcan, is a spray that rapidly reverses the effects of opioids on the central nervous system in order to prevent overdose death. The FDA approved its status as over-the-counter and removed the requirement for a prescription earlier this year.

With fentanyl overdose deaths on the rise, Oklahoma has begun a campaign to get free Narcan to anyone who needs it.

Where can I find free Narcan and fentanyl test strips in Oklahoma?

The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services' "OK I'm Ready" campaign aims to normalize keeping Narcan and fentanyl test strips on hand. The test strips can prevent people from unknowingly ingesting fentanyl.

There are a few free Narcan and fentanyl test strips vending machines across the state so far, with more coming soon, according to a map on the agency's website.

You can also order free Narcan and fentanyl test strips from the department's website.

When to use Narcan

Before using Narcan, you should know how to identify an opioid overdose.

The signs include the person remaining unresponsive "after you shout, shake their shoulders, or firmly rub the middle of their chest," breathing is slow, irregular or stopped, or the pupils of the eyes are like a pinpoint.

With these signs, you should call 911 or have someone else call for you.

How to use Narcan

Once emergency medical help has been called, lay the person on their back before administering Narcan. You should note there is only one dose per device, so you should not attempt to test the spray beforehand.

Take the following steps to administer Narcan, according to the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services:

• Tilt the person’s head back and provide support under their neck with your hand.

• Hold the device with your thumb on the bottom of the plunger. Put your first and middle fingers on either side of the nozzle.

• Gently insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril. Your fingers should be right up against the nose. If giving it to a child, make sure the nozzle seals the nostril.

• Press the plunger firmly with your thumb to give the dose.

• Remove the device from the nostril.

• Move the person on their side (recovery position) and watch them closely.

• Give a second dose after 2 to 3 minutes if the person has not woken up or their breathing is not improved. Switch nostrils with each dose.

• You can give a dose every 2 to 3 minutes if more are available and are needed.

• Perform CPR if you know how until emergency medical help arrives if needed.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Where to get Narcan for free in Oklahoma