Naloxone comes in three different forms: as a nasal(nose) spray, as a vial that requires you use a syringe (needle) for injection, and an auto-injector device that will inject into the muscle with a small needle when you push a button). There are videos that explain how to use each of these different forms of the medication here.

Anyone can get naloxone by:

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  Getting a prescription from their provider
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  Going to a pharmacy and using the standing order for the general public
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  Visiting one of the many Chicago Recovery Alliance (CRA) or Community Outreach Intervention Projects (COIP) sites across the city where overdose education and free naloxone kits are provided (only intramuscular naloxone at this time).

How to get naloxone without an individual prescription at a pharmacy:

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  Have insurance card and identification ready (if you have them).
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  Ask whether the pharmacy has naloxone in stock to obtain through IL’s Standing Order.
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  If yes, ask for the cost before the order is filled (There may be a copay for certain products. Some insurance companies have removed or lowered the copay for brand-name naloxone products, so be sure to ask. All IL Medicaid plans cover naloxone.)
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  If they do not have it in stock, request that it be ordered or ask if another location has it in stock.
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  If the pharmacist declines your request, ask if they’re familiar with the standing order.
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  If they are unable to fill the request or are unfamiliar with the standing order, please go to another pharmacy and report your experience to the Chicago Department of Public Health.