As part of its aggressive fight against the opioid crisis—where accidental overdoses claimed nearly 900 lives in 2021 alone (a 55% spike from 2020)—the County of San Diego launched a Naloxone Distribution Program in 2022.
Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is a fast-acting nasal spray that reverses opioid overdoses by restoring breathing, buying critical time for emergency help.
The program’s crown jewel, Free vending machines stocked with naloxone kits and fentanyl test strips, open to anyone 18+ (no ID required). These aren’t pay-to-play; they’re harm reduction lifesavers, aligning with the county’s Comprehensive Harm Reduction Strategy.
The initiative aimed to distribute 33,000 kits by mid-2023 (goal smashed with 33,160+ delivered), and vending machines were a key tool for stigma-free access. Pioneered by the Behavioral Health Services (BHS) Harm Reduction Team, these machines even include on-screen training videos to guide users step-by-step.
The county rolled out 12 machines initially, with upgrades bringing the total to 16 across diverse spots like detention facilities, clinics, and recovery centers. No expansions planned, but they’re heavily used—preliminary data shows steady demand.
Impact and Beyond
These machines have normalized naloxone access, reducing barriers in a county where fentanyl-laced drugs drive 80%+ of overdoses.
Naloxone is a proven life saver in overdose situations and San Diego County Behavioral Health Services and its partners are working hard to expand access. The enhanced distribution of naloxone into the hands of community members is vital in saving lives that might otherwise be lost to overdose.
Nicole Esposito, San Diego’s chief population health officer.
