Naloxone (also known as Narcan) is a medication that can reverse an overdose caused by an opioid drug (heroin, fentanyl, or prescription pain medications). When administered during an overdose, naloxone blocks the effects of opioids on the brain and quickly restores breathing. Naloxone has been used safely by emergency medical professionals for more than 40 years and has only this one critical function: to reverse the effects of opioids in order to prevent overdose death. Naloxone has no potential for abuse.

If naloxone is given to a person who is not experiencing an opioid overdose, it is harmless. If naloxone is administered to a person who is dependent on opioids, it will produce withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal, although uncomfortable, is not life-threatening.

What is Naloxone?

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - What is Naloxone?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse - Opioid Overdose Reversal with Naloxone

Addiction Policy Forum - 5 things everyone should know about Naloxone

Addiction Policy Forum - Naloxone Administration

Addiction Policy Forum - Naloxone Toolkit 

Find Naloxone

NaloxoneOhio - If you are in Ohio, you can get naloxone for you, someone you know, or your organization. Get naloxone now

State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy - Ohio Pharmacies Dispensing Naloxone Without A Prescription

State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy – Naloxone Distribution Resources

Project DAWN (Deaths Avoided With Naloxone)

Ohio Department of Health – Project DAWN – Deaths Avoided With Naloxone

Ohio Department of Health – Project DAWN Sites by County