December 10, 2025

Countermeasures Season 3 Episode 5: Naloxone Access

For a long time I had my big three: keys, wallet, cell phone. It's now the big four, because naloxone is in that mix. I just wouldn't want to be in a position where I'm out in the world and someone's overdosing and I'm not there to help. The area where there's probably some improvement to be had is making sure that it is in every deli and in every restaurant, in every place of employment. — Zac Clark

What to listen for:

Since becoming available over the counter, naloxone has saved countless lives. In this episode, we explore how expanded access is helping communities confront the opioid crisis, the real-world impact on individuals, and the work that still lies ahead. Experts point to broader availability as a key factor in recent declines in overdose deaths, but the crisis is far from over. Many rural and marginalized communities continue to face devastating losses.

We look at how easier access to naloxone is shaping outcomes, supporting harm-reduction efforts, and offering hope where it’s needed most.

 

Guests:

  • Zac Clark, Founder and CEO of Release Recovery
  • Olivia Sugarman, PhD, MPH, Assistant Scientist at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health
  • Amy Sweet, Activist, Mother and Nurse