A Life-Saving Tool for Families, Friends, and Communities
Overdose deaths remain one of the most urgent public health crises in the United States. Although recent data shows a promising decline in opioid-related deaths—from approximately 83,140 in 2023 to 54,743 in 2024, a nearly 34% drop—these numbers are still staggering and reflect tens of thousands of preventable tragedies each year (CDC Report).
Many of these lives could have been saved by one small, powerful tool: Narcan.
At New Paradigm Recovery, we believe in empowering individuals and families with tools that can help—not just during recovery, but in moments of crisis. That’s why we encourage everyone, whether you’ve been personally affected by addiction or not, to carry Narcan.
What is Narcan?
Narcan is the brand name for naloxone, a medication designed to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, essentially kicking the opioids off and stopping their effects—most importantly, respiratory depression, which is what makes overdoses deadly.
Narcan is safe, easy to use, and has no effect if opioids are not present, meaning it won’t hurt someone if you use it and they’re not experiencing an overdose.
Who Should Carry Narcan?
The short answer: everyone.
If someone you care about struggles with opioid use or has a history of substance use disorder, you should absolutely have Narcan on hand. But even if you don’t think it applies to your life, you might be surprised. Overdoses happen at college parties, music festivals, in bathrooms at workplaces, in homes and hotels, and across every socioeconomic level.
People who should carry Narcan include:
- Family members of someone in recovery
- Friends of people who use recreational substances
- Employers, HR teams, and educators
- Healthcare professionals and first responders
- Anyone who wants to be prepared to save a life
Where to Get Narcan
Narcan is available without a prescription at most major pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens. Many states and cities also have public health programs or community organizations that distribute it for free.
You can also order Narcan online through state-funded programs or nonprofit overdose prevention initiatives. Visit narcandirect.com or your state health department website for resources.
How to Use Narcan
Narcan typically comes in a nasal spray form that’s simple and quick to administer.
- Recognize the signs of an overdose:
- Slow, irregular, or no breathing
- Unresponsive or unconscious
- Blue or gray lips and fingertips
- Gurgling or choking sounds
- Slow, irregular, or no breathing
- Call 911 immediately.
- Spray Narcan into one nostril. Tilt the person’s head back and press the plunger.
- Wait 2–3 minutes. If the person isn’t breathing or regaining consciousness, administer a second dose in the other nostril.
- Stay with the person until emergency help arrives. Perform rescue breathing or CPR if trained.
Removing the Stigma: Carrying Narcan is a Sign of Compassion
Having Narcan isn’t a sign that you expect people around you to use drugs. It’s a sign that you care enough to be prepared. Just like CPR training or carrying an EpiPen for allergies, it’s a proactive step toward community safety.
Talking about Narcan—and carrying it—helps remove the stigma around addiction and overdose. It tells others: “Your life matters. I’m here to help if you need it.”
A Final Word: One Small Act Can Make a Big Difference
The drop in opioid-related deaths is encouraging—but it’s not a reason to let our guard down. It’s proof that public awareness, access to treatment, and life-saving interventions like Narcan are working.
At NPR, we’ve seen firsthand how the right tools at the right time can change everything. Whether you’re a parent, friend, teacher, or neighbor, your willingness to carry Narcan could mean the difference between life and death for someone’s loved one.
