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:

• Call the Alexandria Health Department at 703.746.4888 or walk-in to any of the clinics at 4850 Mark Center Drive (Floor 4) during regular business hours: M-F 8 a.m. -4:30 p.m..; Th. 12:45-4:30 P.M. 
• Visit your local pharmacy to obtain Narcan for free without a prescription

Fentanyl test strips are available for walk-in clients at Alexandria Health Department, on the fourth floor at 4850 Mark Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22311. AHD will provide you with information on how to use these test strips safely and effectively.

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