Overdose Emergency
Boynton Health The University of Minnesota provides free access to naloxone nasal spray across the Twin Cities campuses, a life-saving, easy-to-use medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose.
Overdose Emergency Response kits containing free naloxone can be found at the following locations:
- Appleby Hall - First floor hallway, near automated external defibrillator (AED)
- Boynton Health - Outside the main entrance
- Coffman Memorial Union - First floor, across from the welcome desk, next to the defibrillator
- Skyway (West Bank) - Along the wall, next to the old US Bank location
- St. Paul Student Center - First floor, near AED
- 17th Avenue - Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life main entrance
- All University apartments and residence halls on the East Bank, West Bank, and St. Paul campuses, available to residents with Ucard access.
Refill Form
Notice that supplies are low in an Overdose Emergency Response Kit? Notify us by filling out the refill request form.
Even if you don't use opioids, carrying naloxone is important in case of emergencies, especially in environments where others might be using them. Being prepared could save a life.
- Evaluate for signs of an overdose.
- Call 911 for help. If you suspect someone is experiencing an opioid overdose, call 911 immediately.
- Open the naloxone package and follow the enclosed instructions carefully.
- Try to keep the person awake. Lay them on their side to prevent choking.
- Monitor the response. Stay with the person until help arrives.
Additional Information
Naloxone vs. Narcan
NARCANⓇ is a trademarked nasal spray form of naloxone and the most widely known form of the drug; the two terms are often used interchangeably.
Naloxone Training
Free online training on how to administer naloxone is offered through the Steve Rummler Hope Network.
In-person Naloxone Training is offered on campus approximately twice a semester. Visit the Health & Emergency Response Office website for upcoming training opportunities.
Naloxone Expiration
Naloxone has an expiration date, which can be found on the packaging. You may still administer expired naloxone if you believe someone is experiencing an overdose. It will not cause harm to the individual.
Prescription Naloxone
Boynton Pharmacy will continue to provide naloxone to those who have a prescription for the medication.
Resources
Visit the Center for Disease Control website for information on naloxone and stopping an overdose. Visit Boynton Health's Pharmacy if you have any questions.
Program Partners
We thank our program partners:
MN-SUCH (Minnesota Substance Use & Community Health Lab), part of the Medical School’s Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, provides the overdose emergency response kits and naloxone.
Steve Rummler Hope Network provides naloxone training.
Contact Us
Have additional questions? Contact us at [email protected].
Fentanyl Test Strips
In addition to naloxone, you can now access free fentanyl test strips at our Naloxone Community Access Point (NCAP) locations across campus. Fentanyl test strips are a practical tool that can be used to test a small sample of drugs for fentanyl. You can pick up test strip kits, which include instructions and supplies, anonymously from any of our campus NCAP boxes.
Drug Disposal Pouches
If you have substances, medications, or prescription drugs you no longer intend to use, we encourage you to dispose of them safely. You can find free Deterra drug disposal pouches in our NCAP boxes
Emergency & Legal Information
- If you or someone else needs medical attention, call 911 for help.
- Minnesota Good Samaritan Law (Steve's Law): State law generally prevents you and the person experiencing a drug-related overdose from being charged with possession of controlled substances when you call 911 for medical help.
- University Policy & Confidential Support: University policy prohibits the illegal or unauthorized possession or use of drugs and alcohol. We also care about your safety and provide risk-reduction resources. Confidential substance use support is also available through Boynton Health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are fentanyl test strips?
Fentanyl test strips are a highly effective tool for detecting the presence of fentanyl, but they are not guaranteed to be 100% accurate. While they detect most fentanyl analogues, they may not detect all of them. Use of these supplies does not eliminate the risk of overdose or injury. Because no test is guaranteed to be 100% accurate, you should always treat your substances with caution and practice harm reduction strategies, regardless of the test result.