Officials in Philadelphia want residents to carry and use an opioid overdose antidote as part of the city's effort to combat skyrocketing overdoses.
The city's health department announced a new ad campaign Tuesday showcasing how easy naloxone is to use and urging residents to use it.
Public Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley says there is no better feeling than saving another person's life. He understands people might feel hesitant about using the antidote, but it is actually very simple to administer.
The ad shows how to use it, but the city will also offer live training sessions.
The city has a standing order at all pharmacies so anyone can obtain naloxone — also known by the brand name Narcan — without a prescription.
Philadelphia has the highest opioid death rate of any large U.S. city. More than 1,200 people fatally overdosed in Philadelphia in 2017.
