As of March 2023, naloxone, a safe, FDA-approved medication that has been proven to reverse opioid overdoses in minutes, is available without a prescription. Naloxone is also available through community-based naloxone programs and many syringe service programs. Newer, more innovative distribution methods have also been made available in many communities. Jails across the country are beginning to implement naloxone vending machines as a strategy to distribute naloxone to detainees released from jail. Public libraries have emerged as distribution centers for the medication and other prevention resources. Some communities have implemented mobile recovery services to provide naloxone and other support services.
Other Ways to Find Naloxone
There are multiple funding sources available to obtain naloxone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offer multiple grant opportunities to fund naloxone and other harm reduction programs. Other funding sources include state and community-based organizations. The Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program funding by the Bureau of Justice Assistance is offered annually to provide resources to support state, local, tribal, and territorial efforts to respond to illicit substance use and misuse, reduce overdose deaths, promote public safety, and support access to prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery services in the community and justice system.
