How to Get Narcan® (Naloxone) in Atlanta

Naloxone is a medication specifically developed to reverse opioid overdoses.1 It works by quickly binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which blocks the effects of opioids. When administered during an overdose, naloxone can reverse the life-threatening symptoms, including slowed or stopped breathing.1 While naloxone is most commonly known by the brand name Narcan, it is available under other brand names as well, and can be administered as a nasal spray or injection.1

How Does Narcan (Naloxone) Work?

Narcan works by rapidly displacing opioids from the receptors in the brain, blocking their effects. Opioids depress the central nervous system, leading to symptoms like slow breathing, loss of consciousness, and in extreme cases, death. Narcan is an opioid antagonist, which means it binds to these same receptors without activating them, effectively pushing opioids out and reversing the overdose.1

Narcan’s effectiveness is temporary, which means emergency services should be called immediately after administering it. Although it can quickly restore normal breathing, its effects last only 30 to 90 minutes, and overdose symptoms may return if additional medical intervention is not provided.1

Fortunately, there are numerous places where you can obtain Narcan in the Atlanta area. Many pharmacies, non-profit organizations, rehab centers, and even vending machines distribute it. Below is a list of places where you can obtain Narcan in Atlanta:

• Georgia Overdose Prevention
• Next Distro Georgia
• Georgia Harm Reduction
• Walgreens Pharmacy (various locations)
• CVS Pharmacy (various locations)

In addition to these resources, some health departments and community organizations offer Narcan for free.

How Much Does Narcan (Naloxone) Cost?

The cost of Narcan can vary based on where you obtain it and whether you have insurance. On average, Narcan nasal spray can cost between $30-$60, but many places offer it for free or at a reduced cost.5 Nonprofits and government programs often distribute free Narcan kits to individuals in need making the life saving drug more accessible locally. Additionally, most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover the cost of Narcan at pharmacies with a small copay.5 It’s always best to check with your provider or pharmacy ahead of time to confirm coverage and cost.

Yes, Naloxone is incredibly safe and effective.1 If given to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose, it won’t have any adverse effects, meaning you can administer it in uncertain situations without worry.7 However, it’s essential to understand that Naloxone only works to reverse opioid overdoses and has no effect on overdoses involving other substances, like benzodiazepines, cocaine or alcohol.1,7

The safety of Naloxone has been extensively studied, and it has been proven to be a critical tool in preventing opioid overdose deaths. By distributing Naloxone widely, many lives can be saved, making it a crucial component of harm reduction efforts.