The Effects of Stigma on Naloxone Attitudes and Policy Endorsement
- Addiction Policy Forum
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 4
Naloxone is a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses by blocking the effects of opioids and reversing overdose symptoms such as respiratory depression. Studies show that access to naloxone and overdose education in communities can significantly lower overdose deaths. Despite its effectiveness, barriers to access still persist, which are largely driven by stigma.
To better understand the association between stigma (manifesting as stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination) and naloxone uptake, the Addiction Policy Forum and researchers from the University of Delaware designed a survey that was administered by 57 partner organizations, ranging from public health departments, hospital systems, universities, recovery community organizations, and criminal justice agencies.
This report provides evidence that higher levels of stigma are associated with lower support for making naloxone available to those at risk and their loved ones. A total of 8,278 individuals participated in the cross-sectional survey conducted between November 8, 2023, and July 16, 2024, with 5,158 (62.3%) fully completing the survey.
Key Findings
Widespread Support for Naloxone Access: 83.3% of participants supported making naloxone available to friends and family members of people with opioid use disorder, while 11.8% were opposed or neutral.
Endorsement of Naloxone by Profession: The highest levels of support were among participants who worked in community services/nonprofits (95%) and healthcare (90.9%), whereas participants who worked in sales and business/financial operations reported lower endorsement levels (79.3% and 77.4%, respectively).
Stigma Linked to Naloxone Opposition: Individuals who opposed naloxone access reported higher levels of stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination than those who were supportive.
Stereotypes Differ by Profession: The endorsement of stereotypes was highest among individuals who worked in management and sales, while those who worked in business and community services/nonprofits showed the lowest levels.
We would like to thank Emergent BioSolutions for supporting this work, along with the 57 participating sites that played an integral role in the success of this survey. These sites included community service organizations, treatment providers, public health agencies, hospitals, and state/local government agencies from 28 states nationwide, along with one international site. Their commitment to distributing the survey and engaging with communities has been invaluable in ensuring the collection of critical insights into the perceptions and experiences surrounding addiction. This data is essential for informing meaningful recommendations and shaping initiatives aimed at reducing stigma and fostering more compassionate strategies. We recognize the time, effort, and resources they devoted to this effort and deeply appreciate our partnership in advancing this important work.