What is Naloxone?

This webpage will expire in 2023. Please see our new Overdose Prevention Initiative site and our new Naloxone webpage.

Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose.  Naloxone starts working almost immediately, is not addictive, and has no effect if opioids are not present in a person's system. You don't have to be a doctor or medical provider to give someone naloxone. It can be administered by friends and family members.

How Can I Get Naloxone?

Individuals and family members can get a prescription for naloxone from their doctor and have it filled at a pharmacy.  It is also possible to purchase naloxone directly from a pharmacist without a prescription.  If you have health care insurance, naloxone prescriptions may be covered.

Some community organizations (such as county and city health departments, emergency service providers, syringe/needle exchange programs, homeless programs, and veteran organizations) provide naloxone at low or no cost.

How Do I Use Naloxone?

Naloxone is administered when a person is showing signs and symptoms of opioid overdose. It can be given by nasal spray or injected. For more information, see "Administering Naloxone" or Opioid Safety and How to Use Naloxone (PDF) .​