Naloxone is a medication that has been developed to reverse some of the effects of fentanyl and save lives. Since 2012, British Columbia has offered Take Home Naloxone (THN) kits to users of fentanyl and their friends and family to use in the event of an overdose. No prescription is needed to get a THN kit, and some places offer them for free.

Where to Get Take Home Naloxone Kits in British Columbia

Fraser Health Clinics – Fraser Health operates a series of clinics across the Fraser Valley that offer THN kits and training free of charge. Locations offer group and individual training and are open most days of the week.

New Westminster Public Health Unit – Health care workers provide kit training Monday – Friday depending on staff availability.

Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre (DEWC) – This centre provides THN kits and other health services to women in Vancouver. Women can be connected to additional resources that can help them make positive changes in their lives.

Stride with Purpose Mobile Health Van – These vans can be found in various locations throughout British Columbia. Users of fentanyl along with their friends and family can receive training on how to properly administer naloxone. These vans also offer needle exchanges, hygiene supplies and referrals to community resources.

Lower Mainland Drug Freedom – In addition to naloxone, this service in New Westminster allows women to receive clinical assessments and counselling along with follow-up care. A $65 monthly fee applies.

Royal Oak Clinic – THN kits are available for free, and users of naloxone and heroine have access to additional services for an additional fee.

If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, there is hope. Westminster House and other addiction recovery services in British Columbia can help put people on the path to a better life that is free of addiction.

About Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a powerful opioid that has become one of the most commonly abused drugs in British Columbia. Considered to be about 100 times more powerful than morphine, fentanyl is a potentially deadly drug that can slow a person’s breathing and lead to increased drowsiness and unconsciousness. Although fentanyl is sometimes prescribed as a painkiller, the drug is often abused and taken in high doses that are considered unsafe.