Naloxone is a medication that can save the life of someone overdosing on opioids such as heroin or prescription painkillers. It works by blocking the effects of opioids on the brain, allowing an overdose victim to regain consciousness and breathe normally. Naloxone is available as an injection or nasal spray and can be administered by anyone with minimal training. Most states have passed laws making it easier for people to access naloxone, including allowing people to buy it without a prescription and providing training on how to use it. Naloxone is incredibly effective at reversing opioid overdoses but can’t solve the more significant addiction problem. It should be part of a comprehensive approach that includes treatment and long-term recovery support services. By making naloxone widely available, we can help save lives while creating pathways to much-needed care for people struggling with opioid misuse.
