Opioid overdose medication available on campus

The Campus Health Center is making Naloxone available to the campus community. The medication, marketed as Narcan, is used to counter the effects of drug overdoses and has particularly been promoted as an antidote for fentanyl, heroin and other opioids. 

Ana Hernandez, senior director of Health and Wellness Services, said students are being encouraged to carry one box of Naloxone, which contains two doses of the nasal spray. The boxes are free and will be available at 50 sites across campus. 

The availability and distribution of Naloxone brings the campus into compliance with Senate Bill 367. Funding support comes from the state, county health professionals and CSUMB campus partners. 

The distribution comes in time for a Spring Break tabling event in front of the Library on on Wednesday, March 20, from noon to 2 p.m.

“Fentanyl can be found in any drugs that aren't from a pharmacy,” said Gary Rodriguez, the department’s health education and prevention manager. “Carrying Naloxone can help save a life from overdose." 

Initially, 2,400 boxes are being made available. That’s all that can be ordered at one time, Hernandez said. More Naloxone will arrive in early April to replenish the stations. 

Information on the locations of the distribution sites is posted on the health center’s webpage. A video on the use of Naloxone nasal spray can be found here.