Resources in
Massachusetts
In 2022, there were 2,359 identified opioid overdose deaths in the state of Massachusetts.
If you are a person who uses drugs or if you are around people who use drugs, please consider learning how to respond to an opioid overdose and carrying naloxone (intranasal brand name: Narcan). Naloxone is a medication designed to reverse an opioid overdose. Opioids slow down the activity of the central nervous system. This can cause slowed or stopped breathing which may lead to death. Naloxone displaces the opioids from the opioid receptors in the brain which allows the person who is experiencing an opioid overdose to begin breathing normally. We have a helpful FAQ and are constantly updating it with questions from our site visitors. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, let us know.
No cost in-person naloxone access
This naloxone distribution program locator provide information for the Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution (OEND) programs across the state of Massachusetts. These locations provide naloxone at no cost to individuals most likely to be a layperson first responder to an opioid overdose incident and other community responders.
Pharmacy-based naloxone access
This website provides helpful information and resources for how to access naloxone in your community. Did you know the MA Department of Public Health has issued a statewide standing order that allows retail pharmacies such as CVS to dispense naloxone without a prescription? MassHealth covers the cost of naloxone for members, as do many other insurers.
Harm Reduction Supply Access by Mail
Program RISE provides fentanyl test strips, personal sharps containers and Narcan by mail in the Metro West area.
DRUG USER HEALTH & SYRINGE SERVICE PROGRAMS
Massachusetts has many syringe exchange programs and several groups provide mobile and delivery services within their county or multiple counties. Contact the program closest to you for more information. Syringes are also available in many pharmacies throughout the state.
LEARN TO COPE
Learn to Cope is a non-profit support network that offers education, resources, peer support and hope for parents and family members coping with a loved one dealing with dependance on opiates or other drugs.
BOSTON-SPECIFIC RESOURCES
The Boston Public Health Commission maintains information about how to access naloxone, syringe exchange services, and preventative care for people who use drugs.
MASS’S GOOD SAMARITAN LAW
The Massachusetts Good Samaritan Law protects people who call 911 during an overdose from being charged with possession of a controlled substance. The law is limited, please read below for more information.
SUBSTANCE USE HELPLINE
This helpline provides free and confidential information about state funded treatment and recovery resources including specialized resources for youth.
DRUG USER ORGANIZING
The Urban Survivors Union is a national drug users union mobilizing against the war on drugs. Check out their wealth of resources including #reframetheblame a campaign against drug induced homicide laws.
NEW ENGLAND USERS UNION
Our mission is to fight for the rights of drug users across New England, empowering members to stand up for what is right. The membership is comprised of active and former users willingly fighting for the end of prohibition of illicit drugs and end of stigma in our community.