What Alameda County is Doing
Overview
Overdose deaths are a growing problem. Alameda County offers numerous services to address substance use prevention, treatment, and harm reduction.
Reduced Opioid Prescriptions
Unused medication dropoff locations
Safe disposal of unused prescription drugs, including opiates, reduces unnecessary exposure to individuals. It also protects our environment and water systems. In 2021 Alameda County reclaimed over 62,000 pounds of unused medications. (Include interactive map of prescription drop off locations across the county)
Syringe drop off and exchange
Safe disposal of syringes protects individual and community health. There are over 60 sharps disposal locations, including retail pharmacies and other publicly accessible buildings. For people who use intravenous drugs and people seeking clean needles, Alameda County provides harm reduction services, including needle exchange at 8 sites across Alameda County. (Include interactive map of syringe drop off locations and syringe exchange sites)
- SSP locations include: Directory of Syringe Services Programs in CA
Naloxone
Naloxone, sold under the brand name Narcan, is a life-saving drug that reverses opioid overdose. Narcan is available at all pharmacies without the need for a prescription. Training for first responders and community members is available through Alameda County’s Health Care for the Homeless program (link).
For schools, first responders, and community organizations, the California Department of Health Care Services provides a free naloxone program. Register your organization here and receive Naloxone at no cost.
- Administration training: Opioid Overdose Responder & Naloxone Training - ALAMEDA COUNTY HEALTH CARE FOR THE HOMELESS (achch.org)
- Access Naloxone:
- Highland General Hospital ED waiting room
- Bridge Clinic
- Lobby of Santa Rita Jail
- For schools, nonprofits, EMS, fire departments and other orgs seeking naloxone: Naloxone Distribution Project (NDP) Application (qualtrics.com)
- For individuals: Get Naloxone Now
- Naloxone is freely available at the following locations:
Medications to Treat Substance Use Disorders
For people who use opiates, medications to treat substance use disorders is available to manage your use and addiction. The Bridge Program operates out of Highland General Hospital in Oakland. Drop-in visits are available 5 days a week and 24/7 through their Emergency Department. Call or text for treatment today at (510) 545-2765.
- Bridge website: Home | The Bridge: Alameda County Rapid Access Substance Use Treatment (ahsbridge.org)
Treatment services (ACBH)
See Substance Use – Alameda County Behavioral Health for more information.