Narcan – the overdose reversal medication – is now available at no cost to Newton residents through a new program launched by the city’s Health and Human Services Department.

Trained HHS staff members offer free naloxone (Narcan) to Newton residents who complete a brief (30-minute) individual training session on how to recognize an overdose and administer the reversal medication. The program is supported by a generous Narcan donation from Newton-Wellesley Hospital.

The program’s primary goals are to reduce overdoses among Newton residents by reducing barriers to accessing Narcan, and to increase awareness about addiction recovery resources for individuals and families.

Newton residents can participate in the program by calling the HHS Department at 617- 796-1420 and requesting an appointment with a social services staff member. The approximately 30-minute confidential consultation will include individual training in the signs and symptoms of an overdose, how to use naloxone, and an opportunity to learn more about recovery resources. Then, a bag including naloxone, a CPR mask and gloves, and printed resources will be offered at no charge. No insurance information will be collected.

For more information and to make an appointment, call 617-796-1420 or visit www.newtonma.gov/narcan.