Naloxone Awareness Day highlights a simple action that can save lives
January 22, 2026
On January 23, South Carolina recognizes Naloxone Awareness Day – a date chosen to reinforce a simple but powerful message: with naloxone, saving a life can be as easy as 1-2-3. Supported by the South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (BHDD), the statewide observance reminds residents that overdose deaths are preventable and encourages them to learn how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and respond quickly. Naloxone is a safe, FDA-approved medication that can reverse an opioid overdose by temporarily blocking the effects of drugs such as fentanyl, heroin and prescription pain medications, helping restore breathing until emergency help arrives.
“Naloxone gives people the power to act in a moment when every second matters,” said Sara Goldsby, director of BHDD’s Office of Substance Use Services (OSUS). “It’s easy to use, widely available and can mean the difference between life and death.”
OSUS urges South Carolinians to become familiar with signs that may indicate an opioid overdose, including slowed or irregular breathing, unresponsiveness or noticeable changes in skin or lip color. Because opioids can affect breathing quickly, calling 911 at the first sign of concern is critical. Administering naloxone promptly and staying with the person until help arrives can improve outcomes. Naloxone is safe and will not harm someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose, making it an important tool for anyone to keep on hand.
When naloxone is nearby, reversing an opioid overdose can be as easy as 1-2-3. To use the life-saving medication, first remove naloxone from its packaging. Next, hold the device with two fingers around the nozzle and your thumb on the plunger. Finally, place the nozzle into the person’s nostril and push the plunger to administer the medication.
“Carrying naloxone is an act of care,” said Michelle Nienhius, OSUS manager of prevention and intervention services. “Anyone can make a difference – being prepared to help someone in crisis strengthens our communities and saves lives.”
Naloxone is available in South Carolina without a prescription at many pharmacies and through community distributors. OSUS encourages residents to learn where they can access naloxone locally and how to use it before they ever need it. Additional information about overdose prevention, response and naloxone availability can be found at daodas.sc.gov.
About South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities’ Office of Substance Use Services
The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities’ Office of Substance Use Services (OSUS) ensures the availability and quality of a continuum of substance use services to improve the health status, safety and quality of life of individuals, families and communities across South Carolina. For more information, visit www.daodas.sc.gov.
