If given in time, Narcan® (also known as Naloxone) can save the life of someone who is overdosing from opioids. It can stop an overdose and restore normal breathing until emergency response can arrive.

During times of individual and collective stress, there is a potential for increased opioid use as a way to self-medicate. Opioids, used in tandem with alcohol or other “downers” (such as Valium, Xanax, Ativan, and sleep medications) are particularly dangerous, and Narcan can save lives while help is on the way. 

This medication is not just for people with an opioid dependence or addiction. If you or a loved one are prescribed opioid painkillers, or are taking opioids, you should have Narcan on hand. The Virginia Board of Medicine requires that physicians prescribe Narcan if opioid prescriptions exceed 120 MME per day.

Fentanyl test strips detect the presence of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than morphine, in unregulated injectable drugs, powders and pills. Research by the Washington State Department of Health reveals that individuals using fentanyl test strips take steps to reduce their risk of overdose. Learn more about fentanyl.

Narcan is available for free:

As we recognize International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31) and launch National Recovery Month this September, the City of Alexandria is partnering with the Alexandria Library system to expand access to life-saving resources in our community.

Throughout the month of September, each library branch will serve as a pick-up location for free Naloxone (Narcan) and drug test strips. Naloxone is a safe, easy-to-use medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. No prescription, insurance, or ID is required—community members simply need to stop by the service desk and ask.

This effort honors the lives lost to overdose while supporting families impacted by the crisis. It also reflects our shared commitment to reducing stigma, raising awareness, and equipping our community with the tools needed to save lives.

Burke Branch

4701 Seminary Road

Alexandria, VA 22304

Barrett Branch

717 Queen Street

Alexandria, VA 22314

Duncan Branch

2501 Commonwealth Avenue

Alexandria, VA 22301

Beatley Branch

5005 Duke Street

Alexandria, VA 22304

For more information about REVIVE! training programs in Virginia, visit the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services website.