Overdose deaths have been on the rise in D.C. since 2015, mostly due to opioids. A study by D.C.’s chief medical examiner found that 96% of overdose deaths in 2022 involved fentanyl – replacing heroin as the District’s most prevalent drug. The cheap and very dangerous synthetic opioid is often laced in other substances and can be unknowingly ingested.
The city has responded by making Naloxone – an overdose-reversing medication – more readily available. Now, residents can get it for free without a prescription or ID at pharmacies across the city, or get it mailed to them.
HealthHIV has this explainer on how to administer the med to someone experiencing an overdose. (Note: those helping in an overdose emergency are protected against drug charges.) Here’s the rundown:
🚩 Step 1: Determine if someone is overdosing. Symptoms include infrequent or lack of breathing, pale skin, or a blue-gray tinge to the lips or fingertips. Naloxone will not hurt someone not experiencing an overdose.
🚩 Step 2: Have someone nearby call 911. Meanwhile, begin rescue breaths until emergency responders arrive. Do NOT give chest compressions.
🚩 Step 3: Administer Naloxone. After the first two rescue breaths, spray the Naloxone into a nostril. Continue rescue breaths. If they do not respond in three minutes, administer another dose.
Residents can also find treatment and free counseling services by calling 1-(888)-793-4357.
Free Naloxone is also available in Virginia and Maryland.
How Do I Reverse An Overdose Using Naloxone?
Kaela Cote-Stemmermann
Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is used to reverse drug overdoses. (Chicago Tribune/ Contributor/Getty Images)
Share article
DC Life Hacks
Your Guide to D.C. in June 2026
June is slam-packed with activities (not to mention an election!). Here’s the best things to do in D.C. this month.
The Best Beaches Within 3 Hours of DC
From family-friendly boardwalks to beachside party towns, here are the best beach getaways from D.C.
Your Guide to DC in May 2026
So bust out your social planner, here’s our 🔥 super hot 🔥 monthly guide to the District for May.
The Best Bands To See At DC’s 2026 Porchfests
This summer's porchfests are going to be bigger than ever. Here are all the bands you can't miss, plus some tips for making the most of t...
Hacks To Save Money on Gas in DC
Gas prices around the nation are soaring. Here how to save on gas in D.C.
Underrated Spots To See Cherry Blossoms In DC
Everything you need to know about the D.C. cherry blossoms, including where to see them without fighting the crowds.
The Best Spring Trips Around DC For Under $150
Travel writer Tim Ebner led us through his best Delaware trips for around $150.
How To Rent a Car In DC
D.C.’s public transit is stellar. But there are times when you just need a car. Luckily, there are plenty of easy ways to rent a car in D...
The latest in DC
'The Custodian' Explores the Life of Washington Football's Biggest Superfan
This documentary short premiering at DC/DOX Festival explores a Washington Football fan's 57-year quest to preserve the team's history wh...
A Local’s Guide To America 250 in Washington D.C.
From exploring historic ships to dancing to local tunes, celebrate America’s birthday like a real Washingtonian.
News Site NOTUS Blocked from Rebranding as The Star for Now
NOTUS was sued by the owner of The Washington Star for trademark infringement.
Is Everyone Dropping Out of Trump’s Great American State Fair Concerts?
Vanilla Ice is still in.
Trump’s Name Must be Removed from Kennedy Center, Judge Orders
U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper said the Kennedy Center’s board acted unlawfully by renaming the center without congressional appr...
The Washington Star Is Suing The Star In a Very Confusing Media Battle
The plaintiffs say Washington is a one-star town.
As D.C. Weighs Budget Cuts, Families Fear Loss of Youth Mental Health Support
Under the proposed budget, D.C.'s sole mental health crisis team for kids would be shuttered — part of a broader slate of cuts that would...
Transcript: City Cast DC's Interview with Janeese Lewis George
You know, I think a lot of the things that we had when I was a young person, are a lot of the things we need to just reinvest back in.
