Naloxone is now over the counter: Access to the medication widens

October 20, 2023.Reading time 5 minutes.

The medication naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save lives, is now available over the counter (OTC) at major pharmacies

International Overdose Awareness Day

August 31, 2023.Reading time 6 minutes.

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose. This year’s theme is “recognizing those who go unseen” to shine a light on those affected by overdose who have gone unnoticed amid the crisis.

Substance use prevention and early intervention: Key steps to reduce harm and prevent use before it starts

July 19, 2023.Reading time 13 minutes.

Close up of two people holding each others hands in comfort

Substance use disorders continue to impact people from all walks of life. As the understanding and science of addiction evolves, so too does our understanding of ways to prevent substance use disorder and increase support for communities. As a follow up to the blog post on substance use disorder treatment, we are taking a closer look at prevention.

Providing support and care for people with substance use disorder: Treatment access in King County

June 7, 2023.Reading time 11 minutes.

Photo of two people sitting facing each other and holding hands. Their faces are not shown.

In 2021, there were over 106,600 deaths due to drug overdose in the U.S.—the highest on record. This reality is felt across the country, including here in King County, where we’ve seen a rise in substance use and overdose deaths. In the face of these tragic impacts, it is important to know where to get help and how to support someone in your community.

Learn how to respond to an overdose: upcoming trainings in our community

June 5, 2023.Reading time 5 minutes.

Public Health and partners are dedicated to raising awareness and offering trainings to various groups in King County to identify and prevent an overdose.

Vending machines dispense critical tools for preventing overdose

April 13, 2023.Reading time 6 minutes.

vending machine stacked with fentanyl test strips, intramuscular naloxone kits, narcan nasal spray, and latex (and non-latex) condoms and lube

In April 2022, Public Health worked with a local community organization, Peer Washington that operates Peer Seattle and Peer Kent to place vending machines at their sites to provide access to free, confidential overdose prevention supplies and resources.