The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued a statewide standing order for naloxone, an antidote medication that reverses an opioid overdose. The order, issued by CDPH Director Karen Smith, M.D., enables organizations that work to reduce or manage drug addiction — such as sober living facilities, needle exchange programs and residential treatment centers — to maintain supplies of naloxone and distribute the antidote in the community to those at risk of an overdose or other potential bystanders.

Organizations must apply to CDPH to receive the standing order. An application can be found on the CDPH standing order webpage. For questions about the standing order, contact CDPH at naloxonestandingorder@cdph.ca.gov.