Achieving the Potential of Naloxone Saturation by Measuring Distribution

This “Viewpoint” article argues that the present moment in the overdose crisis reinforces the urgency to ensure naloxone is at the scene of an overdose. Better naloxone access metrics are needed to drive effective fatal overdose prevention. Despite multiple practical and political challenges ahead in combatting the overdose crisis, measurement is one immediately actionable means to improve naloxone distribution. With a sharp rise in opioid overdose deaths among people who use stimulants, the overdose crisis has clearly spilled into new populations. Simultaneously, naloxone access laws, U.S. Food and Drug Administration over-the-counter approval, and new funding sources such as opioid settlement funds are unprecedented opportunities to support naloxone distribution. To make naloxone saturation a reality, we need to measure what matters—that naloxone gets into the hands of people who need it most.

Published October 27, 2023

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