The UCLA Narcan Distribution Project is committed to providing students and staff with free access to Narcan (the brand name for the generic medication naloxone), an easy-to-use, life-saving medication used to treat opioid overdoses. The program aims to help lower the occurrence of opioid-related overdoses, reduce the stigma surrounding substance use, and to promote a safe and healthy UCLA community.

Naloxone graphic with "What is Naloxone?" in design text

What is Narcan (Naloxone) and how does it work?

Narcan is a medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, blocking their effects and reversing the respiratory depression that can lead to overdose. Narcan is safe, effective, and easy to administer, and can be given as a nasal spray.

More Naloxone text

Why is Narcan (Naloxone) important for our community?

Naloxone Distribution

The UCLA Narcan Distribution Project offers free Narcan kits to students and staff at various distribution sites.

How can I get free Narcan (Naloxone)?

What is included in each kit?

When do I use Narcan (Naloxone)?

Will I get in trouble for using Narcan (Naloxone) or calling 911 in the case of a suspected overdose?

How Naloxone Works

What is Naloxone? Video

This short animation depicts how Naloxone, an opioid overdose-reversal medication, works in the body. For more information, please visit https://www.samhsa.gov/

Graphic Signs of Opioid Overdose

The Opioid Epidemic

The opioid epidemic has been one of the most devastating public health crises in recent history, with opioid overdoses accounting for a significant number of deaths every year. Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, as well as illicit drugs such as heroin and fentanyl. While prescription opioids can be helpful in managing pain, they also carry a high risk of addiction and overdose. Opioid overdoses can cause respiratory depression, which can be fatal if left untreated.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), from 1999 to 2019, nearly 500,000 people died from an opioid overdose in the United States (CDC, 2021a). In 2019 alone, more than 50,000 people died from opioid-involved overdoses (CDC, 2021a). The CDC reports that prescription opioid overdose deaths declined in 2019, but deaths involving synthetic opioids (such as fentanyl) continue to rise (CDC, 2021b).

College-Aged Populations and Substance Use

Why a Narcan Distribution Project at UCLA?

The need for a Narcan distribution project on college campuses is clear. By providing access to Narcan, we can save lives and prevent needless deaths from opioid overdoses. Narcan is a medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, restoring normal breathing and potentially saving the person's life. By having Narcan available on campus, we can ensure that students and staff are equipped to respond to an opioid overdose and have the tools they need to act quickly and effectively.

In addition to the potential life-saving benefits, a Narcan distribution project can also help reduce the stigma surrounding substance use disorders. By acknowledging the reality of substance use on college campuses and taking steps to address it, we can help create a more supportive and understanding community for those who may be struggling with addiction.

Overall, a Narcan distribution project is an important step in addressing the opioid epidemic and promoting the health and well-being of college communities. By raising awareness, providing education and training, and making Narcan available, we can help prevent overdose deaths and support those who are struggling with addiction.

Public Health Data Supports Narcan Distribution

References

Find a Narcan Distribution Site on the UCLA Campus

Narcan distribution sites are available throughout the UCLA Main Campus, navigable via UCLA Interactive Campus Map by Concept 3D.

List of Campus Locations

NEW! Narcan Now Available in Campus Vending Machines (24/7)

How to Use Narcan

An opioid overdose can be life-threatening, but Narcan (naloxone) can quickly reverse the effects of an overdose and save a person's life. Narcan is a medication that can be given as a nasal spray and works by blocking the effects of opioids on the body. Here's how to use Narcan in case of a suspected opioid overdose:

Recognizing the signs of overdose text

Step 1: Recognize Signs of an Overdose

Step 2: Call 911

Step 3: Administer Narcan

Step 4: Stay with the person

Laws and Regulations

California laws protect persons who give naloxone and make naloxone more readily available.

California's Good Samaritan law protects those giving emergency medical care at the scene of a medical emergency, including giving naloxone.

How to Use Narcan Video Tutorial

How to Use Naloxone Nasal Spray (:30) Video

This training (above) is required for kit distribution. Please confirm this training has been completed during kit pickup.

Bystander Training

Opioid Overdose Prevention, Recognition and Response

This training: 1) describes the U.S. opioid overdose epidemic; 2) explains the risk of overdose from opioid analgesics and heroin; 3) teaches how to recognize an opioid overdose; 4) demonstrates how to respond effectively to an opioid overdose (using animated scenarios, graphic sequences, and narration provided by professional voice actors); and, 5) links learners to additional resources, including SAMSHA’s overdose toolkits and drug treatment finder.

(A Spanish language version of the Bystander module will be available soon.)

GetNaloxoneNow Bystander Training

National Harm Reduction Coalition

Harm reduction strategies and tools should be accessible to everyone – regardless of location, time and or experience. National Harm Reduction Coalition offers a series of self-paced online learning modules that groups and individuals can complete on their own schedule and terms – anytime, anywhere. Note: California residents can acquire the Foundations of Harm Reduction, Engaging People Who Use Drugs, and Overdose Prevention and Response courses for $0 using the link below.

NHRC Three-Course Bundle (FREE)

Handouts & PDFs

What You Need to Know About Naloxone (PDF)

This fact sheet provides general facts about naloxone including where to get it and how to prevent an overdose.

How and When to Use Naloxone (PDF)

This fact sheet discusses how to identify an overdose and use naloxone, and includes the side effects of naloxone.

How to Save a Life with Naloxone (PDF)

This guide offers examples to help you start a conversation with a clinician or pharmacist about how to obtain naloxone, when to use it, and where to find training on giving naloxone.

Learn More

If you or someone you know is struggling with any substance use disorders, UCLA offers a range of resources to help. Our trained professionals are here to support you and can connect you with services such as counseling, treatment, and recovery programs.

Additional Resources