Province plans to distribute up to 290,000 kits as overdose crisis continues
British Columbia is expanding access to free nasal naloxone kits across the province, with the goal of making the life-saving medication more widely available in communities facing the ongoing toxic drug crisis.
The provincial government has committed $18 million toward distributing nasal naloxone through pharmacies, health centres, shelters and other community sites. Officials say as many as 290,000 kits could be provided before the current funding expires at the end of March 2027.
Nasal naloxone is used to reverse opioid overdoses. Unlike traditional intramuscular naloxone, which requires a syringe, the nasal version is administered as a spray. Advocates say this makes it more accessible for people who may be uncomfortable using needles or hesitant to carry injectable kits.
The program builds on a pilot project launched in 2024, which initially targeted youth, Indigenous communities and people in colder regions. Over time, eligibility expanded to include anyone at risk of experiencing or witnessing an overdose.
Harm reduction advocates have welcomed the expansion, describing the nasal option as an important step toward increasing public confidence in overdose response. However, some experts are concerned about the limited funding timeline. With the current commitment ending in March 2027, questions remain about whether the program will become permanent.
Health Minister Josie Osborne has said the province’s immediate priority is ensuring people have access to the form of naloxone they are most likely to use in an emergency. She has not confirmed whether funding will continue beyond the current timeline.
The expansion comes as B.C. continues to record high numbers of toxic drug deaths. According to provincial data, more than 1,800 people died from toxic drugs in 2025.
Researchers and addiction specialists argue that accessible overdose reversal tools remain critical, even as broader strategies around prevention, treatment and safer supply continue to evolve. Some experts emphasize that the toxic drug crisis is unlikely to disappear in the near term, making long-term investment in harm reduction essential.
Beginning in the coming weeks, nasal naloxone will be available at approximately 150 community locations across B.C., including shelters and overdose prevention sites. By April, distribution is expected to expand to additional take-home naloxone sites, including select pharmacies.
Each kit contains two pre-filled nasal sprays, instructions for use and basic rescue supplies.
Residents can check availability through the Toward the Heart website and are encouraged to call ahead to confirm stock.
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