Every year on August 31st, the world comes together to observe International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). This day is dedicated to raising awareness of overdose, reducing the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths and honoring the memories of those lost to this global crisis. It also serves as a call to action for society to educate, advocate and take meaningful steps toward preventing further loss of life due to overdose. Among the most powerful tools in this fight is healthcare education.

Naloxone is the standard treatment for opioid overdose as it is able to reverse the effects of overdose when administered and in March 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Narcan for over-the-counter sale. Consumers can now purchase Narcan, 4 milligram (mg) naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray for over-the-counter, non-prescription, use (1). The approval of naloxone nasal spray is intended to help increase access to the life-saving treatment as a means to combat the growing opioid epidemic.