The New York State Department of Health has announced the results of a new study confirming that naloxone is both an evidence-based and cost-effective way to prevent overdose deaths. The peer-reviewed research, published in the Journal of Public Health Management & Practice, was coauthored by State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, department researchers, and a Brown University collaborator.
“This is a groundbreaking study demonstrating naloxone is a very cost-effective public health resource, and one of the most powerful tools we have to fight the opioid overdose epidemic,” said Dr. James McDonald. “By making naloxone widely available, we ensure New Yorkers are prepared to provide immediate assistance to someone in crisis, potentially saving their life. This study further demonstrates naloxone’s public health impact.”
According to the department, this marks the first time a state health agency has conducted such a comprehensive economic evaluation of naloxone administration. The analysis showed that for every $1 spent on naloxone programs in New York from April 2023 through March 2025, there was a return on investment of $3,219. During this period, over 6,500 lives were saved—equivalent to more than 204,000 years of life gained—by administering naloxone under the state’s Opioid Overdose Prevention Program.
Naloxone distribution was found not only to be effective in reversing overdoses but also provided significant public health benefits relative to its costs. The study’s findings indicate that investing in widespread access to naloxone remains an important part of New York’s harm reduction strategy for opioid use.
The Department continues efforts such as early drug treatment access and monitoring prescription practices alongside distributing naloxone kits and training at no charge through its Opioid Overdose Prevention Programs.
New Yorkers can obtain 4 mg naloxone products without a prescription at pharmacies across the state. Additional support is available through the Naloxone Co-Payment Assistance Program for those seeking intranasal or intramuscular forms of the medication.
Information about obtaining naloxone locally is available via pharmacy directories and state assistance program websites.
