If given in time, naloxone (generic name of Narcan®) can save the life of someone who is overdosing from opioids. It can stop an overdose and restore normal breathing until emergency response can arrive.

During times of individual and collective stress, there is a potential for increased opioid use as a way to self-medicate. Opioids, used in tandem with alcohol or other “downers” (such as Valium, Xanax, Ativan, and sleep medications) are particularly dangerous, and  naloxone can save lives while help is on the way. 

This medication is not just for people with an opioid dependence or addiction. If you or a loved one are prescribed opioid painkillers, or are taking opioids, you should have naloxone on hand. The Virginia Board of Medicine requires that physicians prescribe naloxone if opioid prescriptions exceed 120 MME per day.

Fentanyl test strips detect the presence of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than morphine, in unregulated injectable drugs, powders and pills. Research by the Washington State Department of Health reveals that individuals using fentanyl test strips take steps to reduce their risk of overdose. Learn more about fentanyl.

Free, community-based training sessions are open to everyone—no medical experience is required.

Participants learn how to:

• Recognize the signs of an opioid overdose.
• Respond effectively in an emergency.
• Administer naloxone (Narcan) to reverse an overdose.

Upcoming Training Sessions & Registration

To view upcoming dates, locations, and register for an upcoming session, please complete our registration form.

Register for a Training Session

You do not need to attend a REVIVE! training session to obtain naloxone.

You can get free Narcan and fentanyl test strips at the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) Main Office (4850 Mark Center Drive) and at our Teen Wellness Center clinics.

To get fentanyl test strips, just ask at the front desk. A staff member will give them to you.

To get Narcan, ask at the front desk. A nurse will first show you how to use it safely. Then you can take it home with you. Sometimes you may need to wait for a nurse to be available. You can ask the front desk how long the wait will be.

For more information about REVIVE! training programs in Virginia, visit the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services website.