Capito resolution improves awareness of naloxone to reverse opioid overdoses

U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and her colleagues introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate June 6 as National Naloxone Awareness Day. 

Sponsored by U.S. Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) and cosponsored by Sens. Capito and Ed Markey (D-MA), and others, the resolution recognizes that naloxone is a safe and effective medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. 

“Naloxone is an important tool in our battle against the opioid epidemic and has become an effective treatment that saves lives from overdoses,” Sen. Capito said on June 7. 

Opioid overdoses during the 12 months preceding December 2023 claimed more than 81,000 lives in the United States, according to the text of the resolution. 

Naloxone plays a vital role in preventing long-term brain damage and reducing the risk of fatality associated with opioid overdoses. The Food and Drug Administration authorized the over-the-counter sale of naloxone in 2023. 

“This medication has given people affected by opioid addiction a second chance and allowed individuals to get on a path towards recovery,” the senator said.