In some states, like California, New York, and Texas, you can get naloxone without a doctor’s prescription at any major pharmacy like CVS, Walgreens, or Rite Aid. You may also be able to get it for free from your city or state’s health department, or a local harm reduction group. Check this database from the Harm Reduction Coalition to find naloxone nearest you. Regardless of where you get your naloxone, someone will be able to show you how to use it in case of an emergency.
Naloxone is sold with a shelf life of 1 to 2 years, but any naloxone is better than none. Even if it’s past its expiration date, recent studies have suggested that it may remain effective even decades after it’s been purchased if it has been stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
Why Is it Important to Use New Supplies While Using Drugs?
Depending on what drugs you’re using, you might need other supplies like straws for snorting or needles for injecting. It’s important to use new supplies every time and not share them with other people to prevent the spread of viruses like HIV, Hepatitis C, and COVID-19. If you’re injecting drugs, make sure you get new needles, cookers, and cotton every time. To find out where to get safer drug use supplies near you, check out Next DISTRO.
OK, I Have All My Supplies. What Do I Do When I Go Out?
Whether you’ve used a drug before or not (but especially if it’s been a while), it’s important to start low and go slow. This means starting by using a little bit and waiting a few minutes to see how strong it is. Read up on how you might feel when using a particular drug with these fact sheets from the Drug Policy Alliance. If something feels strong with a very small amount, you might consider using less or not using it at all that night. While you’re using, make sure you take breaks to cool off, drink water, have a snack, and rest.
Remember, we’re all out to have a good time. Whether you use drugs yourself or not, there’s no need to judge people for how they enjoy themselves. People who overdose cannot give themselves naloxone, so you might consider designating someone to be your “sober buddy” for the night. If you’re in a group where you’re all planning to use, take turns so that someone can call 911 and administer naloxone if someone overdoses.
What Do I Do If Someone Unintentionally Overdoses?
Unintentional overdoses are an unfortunate part of living in a world with a contaminated drug supply. The good news is that opioid overdoses can be reversed, meaning that many fatal overdoses are preventable. Because they can happen rapidly, you need to call 911 and act immediately if you think someone is overdosing.
