Expanding Access to Lifesaving Naloxone in Anoka County

Anoka County’s Opioid Solutions Initiative (ACOSI) has partnered with local organizations to place nasal naloxone (Narcan) with more than 500 AED units across the county. Naloxone is a safe, easy-to-use medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose if administered promptly. Because opioid overdose is a leading cause of accidental death, having naloxone available alongside AEDs helps ensure quick access to this lifesaving tool. If you know of an AED location that does not yet have naloxone and would like to request a free supply, please contact opioids@anokacountymn.gov.

ACOSI also encourages individuals to have naloxone on hand. More than 30 naloxone access sites are available throughout Anoka County where anyone can walk in and pick up free naloxone and fentanyl test strips. A map and list of locations can be found at https://www.facesofhopeanoka.org/resources#pickup. Naloxone is not addictive, cannot be used to get intoxicated, and will not cause harm if given to someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose. Minnesota state law allows anyone to carry and administer naloxone, making it an important tool for community safety.

 The City of Columbus provides a Naloxone Access Point at City Hall, located just inside the main entrance. Supplies are available in the wall-mounted box Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

This initiative is funded through Minnesota’s opioid settlement dollars to increase community access to life-saving overdose reversal medication.