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Health Promotion's Narcan Distribution Program Increases Access to Lifesaving Medication

Today
Hand holding up a box of Narcan with blurred cactus in the background

Campus Health’s Health Promotion department has expanded access to free Narcan across the University of Arizona, providing students, faculty, and staff with an important resource to help prevent opioid overdose. The Narcan distribution program began in August 2024 in response requests from students and members of the university community for easier access to this life-saving medication.

Narcan, also known as naloxone, can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose, including overdoses involving fentanyl. The program provides free and convenient access to Narcan kits through the Health Promotion Hideaway, located on the first floor of the Bear Down Building. Any member of the campus community would like to have a box on hand, can drop by The Hideaway during business hours. Individuals or groups who need more than 20 kits can submit a request through the Narcan Request Form at least two weeks in advance of pick up.

The program has made a significant impact across the university. Last year, nearly 3,000 Narcan kits were distributed through Health Promotion, demonstrating the strong demand for overdose prevention resources. In addition, there are currently 474 AED boxes equipped with Narcan throughout the University of Arizona’s main campus and other UofA locations across the state of Arizona. 

The program is made possible through collaboration with Pima County, the Arizona Department of Health Services, and the Arizona Department of Education. Distribution is managed by Amy Amaya, Health Educator at Campus Health specializing in alcohol and other drug education.

“Ask and you shall receive. I’m always happy to help you get access,” said Amaya. Her message reflects the program’s goal of making Narcan easy to access, free of charge, and available to those who need it.

Narcan distribution is an important part of Health Promotion's alcohol and other drug programs and services. To request Narcan. please complete the Narcan Request Form.