In California, people can get naloxone through several routes, including pharmacies, over-the-counter nasal naloxone products, community organizations, syringe-service and harm-reduction programs, and other public-health distribution programs. Naloxone is an opioid-overdose reversal medication and should be used immediately when an opioid overdose is suspected, followed by a call to 911.
Can naloxone be bought over the counter in California?
Yes. FDA-approved over-the-counter naloxone nasal sprays are available without an individual prescription. California Department of Public Health guidance notes that over-the-counter products such as NARCAN and RiVive can be obtained without using the state standing order.
Can California pharmacists provide naloxone without a prescription?
Yes. California law allows pharmacists to furnish naloxone without an individual prescription when they follow the applicable state requirements.
Can community organizations provide free naloxone?
Many community organizations, harm-reduction programs, syringe-service programs, public-health agencies, and other eligible entities distribute naloxone. California’s Naloxone Distribution Project supplies naloxone to qualifying organizations, which can expand free community access.
Who should consider keeping naloxone?
Anyone who uses opioids, lives with someone who uses opioids, takes medications that increase overdose risk, or may witness an opioid overdose can benefit from having naloxone available. Family members and friends can administer it in an emergency.
What should someone do during a suspected overdose?
Call 911 and give naloxone immediately if opioid overdose is suspected. Signs can include unresponsiveness, slow or absent breathing, pinpoint pupils, choking or gurgling sounds, and blue or gray lips or fingertips. Additional doses may be needed according to the product instructions while waiting for emergency responders.
Can naloxone hurt someone if opioids are not involved?
California public-health guidance states that naloxone is not addictive and generally will not harm someone if opioids are not present. That is why it should not be withheld when opioid overdose is reasonably suspected.
Does naloxone work for fentanyl?
Yes. Naloxone can reverse opioid overdose from fentanyl and other opioids. With very potent opioids or mixed-drug overdoses, more than one dose and emergency breathing support may be necessary.
Trinity also has educational guides on keeping naloxone at home after opioid treatment and naloxone for nitazene overdose.
Where can someone look for local naloxone resources?
California Department of Public Health and Department of Health Care Services maintain naloxone and overdose-prevention resources. Local public-health departments and community harm-reduction organizations may also list pickup or distribution locations.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a prescription for nasal naloxone?
Not for FDA-approved over-the-counter nasal naloxone products.
Can family members carry naloxone?
Yes. Family members, friends, roommates, and other potential overdose witnesses can carry and administer naloxone.
Should I still call 911 if the person wakes up?
Yes. Opioid effects can return after naloxone wears off, and mixed-drug overdoses can require additional medical care.
Sources
- California Department of Public Health: Over-the-Counter Naloxone
- California Department of Public Health: Naloxone Resources
- California DHCS: Naloxone Distribution Project
This article is general educational information. Suspected opioid overdose is a medical emergency; call 911.