Free Narcan Kits Available Through Hillsborough Department Of Health

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — In an effort to reduce substance abuse deaths, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is giving out free naloxone (narcan) nasal spray kits to people at risk of experiencing an overdose, and friends and family members of drug users.

Increasing access to naloxone is a key component in battling the opioid epidemic and providing naloxone to the public will help prevent overdose deaths in Florida, said the DOH.

Naloxone is a medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, restoring breathing and consciousness within minutes of being administered to a person who has overdosed. Naloxone can be administered by a bystander (non-health care professional) before emergency medical assistance becomes available, but it is not intended to substitute for professional medical care.

People should call 911 immediately when an opioid overdose is suspected, before administering naloxone.

Those requesting a kit from the DOH-Hillsborough must meet the following eligibility:

• Must be 18 years old or older
• At risk of experiencing an opioid overdose
• Caregivers who may witness an opioid overdose

Naloxone kits are available at the following locations Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.:

• Specialty Care Center, 1105 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa
• University Area Health Center, 13601 N. 22nd St., Tampa
• Sulphur Springs Health Center, 8605 N. Mitchell Ave., Tampa,
• Tuberculosis Center, 8515 N. Mitchell Ave., Tampa.

Naloxone kits are free, and no appointment is necessary. People using naxolone receive educational material, referrals and connections for substance abuse intervention.

Call 813-307-8000 for more information on naloxone in Hillsborough County.