Increasing Naloxone Access and Use to Prevent Opioid Overdose Death and Disability

Abstract

In 2018, the Surgeon General released a public health advisory emphasizing the importance of naloxone in preventing opioid overdose deaths. Legislation is rapidly changing to simplify the process of obtaining naloxone by expanding who can receive and distribute the life-saving drug. Even with legislation in place expanding access to naloxone, the drug is underutilized and health care providers are responsible for ensuring these efforts are put to use within their practice. Legislative changes will be summarized and the role of the health care provider will be discussed.