Province enhances access to nasal naloxone kits to protect communities across British Columbia
VICTORIA —
The Government of British Columbia is investing $50 million to expand access to nasal naloxone, a critical medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. This initiative is part of the province’s ongoing efforts to curb the toxic-drug crisis and save lives.
Naloxone works by temporarily blocking the effects of opioids, restoring breathing in individuals experiencing an overdose. Traditionally offered as an injection, the nasal form is easier to administer — especially by friends, family, or bystanders in emergency situations.
Under the expanded program:
• Approximately half of the 400,000+ naloxone kits distributed each year will now be nasal kits.
• Distribution will begin at 150 community sites immediately and extend to all 2,400 take-home naloxone locations across the province — including participating pharmacies — by April 2026.
• The plans build on a successful pilot launched in 2024, gaining strong support from health professionals and community partners.
Health Minister Josie Osborne stated the investment is part of a broader approach to address drug-poisoning deaths, which have deeply impacted families and communities throughout B.C.
Community advocates also highlighted the importance of easy-to-use nasal naloxone tools, saying they can empower more people with confidence to intervene in life-threatening situations.
Why it matters to British Columbians:
The toxic-drug crisis remains a public health emergency in the province. Expanding access to overdose reversal tools — especially user-friendly forms like nasal naloxone — aims to reduce preventable deaths while reinforcing the importance of community care and shared responsibility.
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