On April 21, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a major step in the fight against the opioid crisis: the state will now provide CalRx-branded naloxone for free to all Californians at local pharmacies, 24 hours a day.
Naloxone, used to reverse opioid overdoses, is credited with saving lives and reducing overdose deaths in the past few years across the US. The CalRx naloxone will save lives by making the medication easier to get.
“California is now the first state in the nation to make our own naloxone—and make it available to all Californians for free,” Governor Newsom said. “This is a game-changer in our fight against the opioid crisis.”
Why Naloxone Access Matters
Naloxone comes in different forms, including nasal sprays and injectable versions. The most common version, Narcan (a nasal spray), can be cost-prohibitive. It usually costs between $30 and $150 per dose without insurance. Injectable naloxone can cost even more. It sells for up to $40 per vial and often requires a prescription, but not in California.
These high prices make it hard for many people, especially those at risk of overdose, to afford it. Some pharmacies do not always keep it in stock, and when they do, many people may feel ashamed to ask for it. This is why California’s decision to offer it for free at all hours is a big deal. It expands critical access.
The Opioid Crisis in San Diego County
San Diego County is one of many California counties hit hard by the opioid epidemic. Between 2016 and 2023, there were 3,590 opioid-related overdose deaths in the county. About 70% of these deaths involve fentanyl, a powerful and dangerous synthetic opioid that is often described as 50 to 100 times as potent as morphine.
Overdoses have claimed friends, families, and neighbors in San Diego County. In 2021, for example, over 1,300 people in San Diego County died from drug overdoses. About 75% of those involved fentanyl. These numbers show how serious the crisis has become in recent years. Every measure that helps slow the epidemic makes a difference.
How Harm Reduction and MAT Save Lives
Harm reduction is about keeping people safe, even if they are still using drugs. Many people who overdose and use naloxone will live to get clean another day. Rather than judging drug users, these programs focus on preventing death and disease. Some examples of harm reduction and life-saving treatments include:
- Free Naloxone: Access to Naloxone makes people more likely to survive an overdose. Communities with naloxone programs often see a drop in overdose deaths, according to the CDC.
- Syringe Service Programs (SSPs): Clean needle programs reduce the spread of diseases like HIV and hepatitis C. Drug users who take advantage of these programs are more likely to enter drug treatment and eventually stop using drugs than those who don’t.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT, which involves drugs such as methadone and buprenorphine, helps people manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. MAT patients are up to 50% less likely to die from an overdose. The FDA considers MAT the “gold standard” for opioid use disorder alongside counseling or treatment.
Even though MAT works well, not everyone has access. In fact, only about 1 in 4 adults with opioid use disorder in the U.S. received these medications. Expanding access is an important goal that can ultimately save lives.
A Step Forward for California
By making CalRx naloxone free and available around the clock, California is giving people a better chance to survive and recover. This also removes cost as a barrier and fights the stigma around getting help.
For people in San Diego and across the state, this program could mean the difference between life and death. If you or somebody you love is a drug user in California, these programs are available to all. Check the link at the top of the article to get Naloxone discreetly mailed to your home for free.
Consider California Sober Living
If you or someone you love is looking for sober housing, our directory is here to help you find a safe, supportive place to start fresh. We feature trusted sober living homes throughout the San Diego area, making it easier to find a stable, substance-free environment that feels like home. Whether you need immediate placement or are planning your next step in recovery, we’re here to guide you. Call (619) 961-9698 for personal assistance.
