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Opioid overdoses do not have to be fatal.

Naloxone is a safe, FDA-approved medication that can reverse an opioid overdose in minutes. It is a life-saving medicine that restores breathing in people whose breathing has slowed or stopped because of opioids.

Naloxone is best known by the brand name Narcan, but several other products are now available. In 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first over-the-counter naloxone nasal spray, making it easier for anyone to carry and use the medication without a prescription.

Narcan is widely available in the United States through pharmacies, community organizations, and public health programs.

How does naloxone work?

Opioids, including the prescription pain medications like Percocet, Oxy and illegal drugs like heroin or fentanyl, attach to specific receptors in the brain. These receptors control pain, mood, and breathing.

During an overdose, opioids can slow your breathing, until it stops. Without oxygen, the brain and body cannot function, which can make an overdose fatal.

Naloxone works by binding to the same receptors as opioids and blocking their effects. This pushes the opioid off the receptors and temporarily reverses the overdose.

When naloxone is administered to someone experiencing an overdose, breathing often returns within 2–3 minutes.

Narcan has no significant effect if opioids are not present in the body, so if there's a chance it could be an overdose, and you use Narcan, and it ends up being another medical issue, Narcan will not harm them.  

Who is at risk of an opioid overdose?

• People who use illegal opioids such as heroin or fentanyl
• People who combine opioids with alcohol, benzodiazepines (such as Xanax or Valium), or certain antidepressants
• People who have recently stopped using opioids or are in early recovery (tolerance drops quickly, increasing overdose risk if use resumes)

How to get naloxone in your community

Narcan and RiVive are now available over the counter in all 50 states, meaning you do not need a prescription.

Major pharmacy chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart typically carry naloxone.

Community programs

Many local organizations distribute free naloxone kits, especially through:

Harm reduction organizations
• Syringe service programs
• Community health clinics
• Local health departments
• Public distribution programs

Some communities provide naloxone through vending machines, mail programs, or public health campaigns to increase access.

How much does naloxone cost?
Prices vary depending on brand and location.

Typical costs include:

$45–$70 for a two-dose Narcan nasal spray at retail pharmacies
Lower-cost generic options in some states or through public health programs
Many insurance plans cover naloxone, and community programs often distribute it free of charge.