Naloxone

In the event of a suspected overdose, administer naloxone every time, no matter what, and call 911 immediately.

Opioids, such as fentanyl, have increasingly been mixed with other non-opioid drugs including: xylazine, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Although non-opioids do not respond directly to naloxone, the opioids that these substances are combined with will respond to naloxone.

Anyone who uses drugs — or who has loved ones or neighbors who may use drugs — should have naloxone on hand in case of an overdose. You never know when you might need to save a life.

It is legal to carry and administer naloxone. Minnesota's Good Samaritan Law, also known as Steve’s Law, protects someone who administers naloxone and calls 911 in good faith from prosecution, even if they are using drugs when the overdose occurs.

Carrying naloxone can save the life of a friend, loved one, or even a complete stranger. Just as you would carry an EpiPen for allergies, you can carry a naloxone kit that could save your life or someone else’s life in an emergency. It is important to note, however, that you cannot administer naloxone on yourself.

Watch the The Importance of Naloxone in Reversing Opioid Overdose video to learn about the signs of an opioid overdose, more about naloxone and an overview of how to administer it. Remember, this is not a training video but you can receive training at any of the locations that provide naloxone.

You can find naloxone at pharmacies, syringe service programs, and other harm reduction groups. All of these included on the Naloxone Finder map to find the nearest location. You can call or go to your preferred pharmacy and ask if they carry naloxone or Narcan®. If they do not, ask them to adopt a naloxone protocol.

Insurance coverage can vary based on type of carrier when purchasing at a pharmacy. Naloxone is available at no cost at syringe service programs and harm reduction organizations listed on the SSP Network Calendar.