Opioid Response Initiative

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Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine and many others. The misuse of and addiction to opioids is a national public health crisis.  

Opioid epidemic in Minnesota

Funding for community organizations

Multiple Opioid Response Community Grants have been distributed to community-led organizations whose work addresses the opioid crisis. Learn more about the grantees.

Naloxone

Naloxone, also known by its brand name Narcan, reverses the effects of opioids. There are two types of naloxone: nasal and injectable/intramuscular. Many people keep naloxone with them at all times in case of a health emergency.
The FDA has extended the shelf life of some nasal naloxone kits. Find the updated expiration date of a naloxone kit

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Community distribution project for residents

At the beginning of 2024, 1,592 naloxone kits were distributed to community during the distribution pilot project. Community members placed orders to receive free  were open for a month and half, from Dec. 11, 2023 - Jan. 26, 2024. Please check back for future programming.

State Mandated/Required Groups

The Minnesota Department of Health in partnership with Department of Human Services has developed a program to order free naloxone for groups that are now required by law to carry/maintain a supply of naloxone. This mandated group includes: schools, corrections, law enforcement, site-based or group housing support settings and sober homes. Learn more and order state mandated naloxone.

Naloxone training

Community organizations

Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health is offering free naloxone training for Ramsey County community organizations and partners. Public Health staff will come to your location for the training session. Each session lasts approximately 1 hour, depending on the needs of the organization. Each person that attends training will receive a naloxone kit.

Register today

Individuals

Individuals wanting naloxone training can call or visit the Syringe Service Program. Call with questions or walk-in during open hours, appointments are not needed. Syringe Service Program hours.

Stay up-to-date

Find the latest information about the Opioid Response Initiative in the May 2024 Overview Report (PDF). You can also sign up for email updates about the opioid settlement and use of resources in Ramsey County.

Subscribe to Opioid Response Initiative

Where the money comes from

Working with community

County programs responding to the crisis

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