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Naloxone (Narcan®) is a safe medication that can save someone’s life by reversing the effects of an opioid overdose. It only works on opioids, such as heroin, prescription painkillers and fentanyl, but it is safe to use even if opioids have not been consumed. If you are worried you or someone you know may be at risk of an opioid overdose, naloxone is available to you.
Learn about how to use naloxone by reading the information included in the naloxone packaging, or visiting any of the following Health Department resources:
If you have questions about naloxone or are having a hard time getting naloxone, email naloxone@health.nyc.gov.
Naloxone is available over the counter. This means anyone can purchase naloxone without a prescription at any location where other OTC medications are sold. Two doses of 4 milligram (mg) naloxone is less than $50 on average, though prices may vary.
All pharmacies in New York State may dispense naloxone through a standing order (PDF) (non-patient specific prescription), but they may need to order the medication.
The Health Department provides virtual overdose prevention and response trainings. These trainings cover steps for responding to an opioid overdose with naloxone and will outline options for accessing an Overdose Response Kit in person or by mail. Select a date below to register:
For questions about naloxone trainings, email naloxone@health.nyc.gov.
To prevent overdose deaths, the Health Department recommends that organizations and businesses make naloxone available in easily accessible locations, such as where first aid kits or AEDs are located. This increases the chances of someone responding quickly to an opioid overdose and saving a life. Naloxone is a safe medication that anyone can use to reverse opioid overdose symptoms long enough for emergency medical services to arrive.
If your organization or business is interested in having naloxone on-site, you can buy it at a local retail store where naloxone is sold over the counter.
If your organization is interested in dispensing naloxone to community members and conducting trainings, consider becoming an Opioid Overdose Prevention Program (OOPP).
For help making naloxone available in your community, email naloxone@health.nyc.gov.