The Opioid Epidemic
The last 20 years in the United States have seen an influx of deaths related to opioids. The epidemic was prompted by the over-prescription of opioids to treat pain, but has evolved in recent years, with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids as the main driver of overdoses. In 2022, 2,490 Virginians died as a result of a drug overdose. Almost 80% of those overdoses were a direct result of synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl and tramadol.
Naloxone is a medication designed to reverse opioid overdoses and save lives. It is often best known by the brand-name product Narcan. It will not harm someone if they are not experiencing an opioid overdose. Watch this 10-minute video to become naloxone trained!
Where can I find Naloxone?
If you are a resident of Chesterfield County, VA, you may pick up naloxone — as well as medication locking pouches, safe drug disposal materials, and test strips — from any public library in the county! Information on other opioid safety and recovery resources in Chesterfield County can be found here.
If you are a resident of Colonial Heights, VA, you may pick up naloxone from the Colonial Heights Health Department, located at 200 Highland Ave., Colonial Heights, VA. Contact (804)-520-9380 to confirm availability. Click here for a list of pharmacies in Colonial Heights that carry naloxone!
Pharmacies Carrying Naloxone
Typically a single dose of naloxone nasal spray costs $50-60 out-of-pocket. If you are insured, you may be able to purchase naloxone at low or no-cost!
