Naloxone (also known as Narcan®) is a medication called an “opioid antagonist” used to counter the effects of opioid overdose, for example morphine and heroin overdose. Specifically, naloxone is used in opioid overdoses to counteract life-threatening depression of the central nervous system and respiratory system, allowing an overdose victim to breathe normally. Naloxone is a nonscheduled (i.e., non-addictive), prescription medication.

Homeless Health Care Los Angeles distributes nasal Narcan at our Center for Harm Reduction in Skid Row. Our nasal Narcan is available without a prescription to anyone who needs it. It is supplied with a brief training on how to use it in case someone is at risk of an overdose. The Center for Harm Reduction is located at 512 E 4th St. Los Angeles, 90012.