Naloxone

In the event of an opioid overdose, there is a drug that can be used that can reverse the effects of the opioid. Naloxone (commonly known by the brand name Narcan) is a life-saving medication used to reverse the effect of an opioid overdose. Naloxone is not addictive. Payment for the medication Naloxone is covered by Medicaid and many other insurances. Many non-profit organizations also distribute Naloxone.

In 2016, Michigan passed a Naloxone standing order law. This allows a pharmacist to dispense Naloxone without an individual prescription and without identifying a particular patient.  With this, the “prescription” comes from the standing doctor’s order from the State. Although individual doctor prescriptions still work for this, as an alternative, family, friends, or others can now obtain Naloxone to use in an emergency without an individual prescription. Administrative rules have been written to implement the standing order.

MDHHS is dedicated to reducing the number of accidental overdose deaths due to opioids.  To that end, jails, law enforcement, and community organizations may request naloxone nasal spray from the department using the form below.  Each form will be reviewed and approved by the department and subsequently submitted for order fulfillment.  Questions may be directed to: MDHHS-NALXNERQST@michigan.gov. 

Community Organizations: Request Naloxone for Distribution

Individuals: Request Naloxone for Personal Use

MDHHS Strategy and Guidance on Naloxone Distribution

How to give Naloxone

Pharmacies Approved to Dispense Naloxone

Safety Advice for Patients & Family Members

Surgeon General's Advisory on Naloxone and Opioid Overdose

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Naloxone page

CDC: Reverse Overdose to Prevent Death