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Plain answers about drugs, alcohol, withdrawal and treatment, from an independent educational resource.

Person holding a nasal spray device beside a smartphone on a wooden kitchen counter, conveying home-based medication and detox support.

How Do You Use Naloxone (Narcan), and Where Can You Get It Free?

In brief: Naloxone, sold as Narcan, is a medicine that quickly reverses an opioid overdose. Spray one dose into the nose, call 911, and give another dose every 2 to 3 minutes if the person does not wake up. It is sold without a prescription, and health departments and community programs may offer it at little or no cost.

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Latest articles

Relaxed man smiling outdoors after drug detox and rehab, embracing a healthy lifestyle and recovery from substance abuse, happy and hopeful in a natural setting.

The Long History of Drugs: Rituals to Medicine

Explore a brief history of drugs, from ancient medicinal use to modern policy shifts. Understand the health, societal, and cultural impacts of various substances.

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For families and friends

Worried about someone else's drinking or drug use? These guides cover what helps, what tends to backfire, and how to keep children steady while a parent is in treatment.

Need help now?

These are free public services. You do not need insurance to call.

  • 988

    Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Call or text, any time.

  • 1-800-662-4357

    SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP). Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information.

  • 911

    Emergency. Call for an overdose, seizure, or if someone is unresponsive.

Drug Detox and Rehab is an independent educational resource. We summarize information from NIDA, SAMHSA, the CDC and peer-reviewed research. We are not doctors and we do not provide medical care.