Narcan Leave-Behind
Narcan Leave-Behind Program
The Narcan Leave-Behind program is an initiative funded by the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police, aimed at reducing opioid overdose deaths by equipping individuals and communities with Narcan (naloxone). Narcan is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Arlington EMS providers provide Narcan kits and addiction recovery referrals at the scene of an overdose.
Know someone with an addiction? Get support from the Arlington Addiction Recovery Initiative (AARI).
What is Naloxone?
Naloxone, also known as NARCAN, is a safe and effective medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids, including prescription painkillers, heroin, and/or fentanyl. Naloxone is available over the counter at the pharmacy as well as via prescription through the statewide standing order. If you or a loved are experiencing an addiction or are prescribed powerful narcotic painkillers, you should have naloxone on hand. For more information, review our NARCAN FAQ. To request free naloxone through the mail, complete this brief online form.
Narcan is available over the counter: Learn what that means, or Request free Naloxone through the mail
Signs of an Overdose
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Cold or clammy skin
- Blue or grey skin, fingertips, or lips
- Deep gurgling or rattling snore (also known as the death rattle)
- Sleeping and cannot be woken up
- Unresponsive to stimuli (like an earlobe pinch or sternum rub)
How to Recognize an Overdose
How to Respond to an Overdose
- Check for responsiveness
- Call 911
- Administer naloxone/NARCAN
- Provide rescue breaths or chest compressions if the person does not respond to the medication
- Readminister NARCAN after 3 minutes (if the person did not respond) or if the person overdoses again when the medication wears off in 45-90 minutes
Watch this 2 Minute Training Video
Find out more information through the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services' REVIVE! program.