Saint Louis County Launches  Naloxone Vending Machines

    County marks third straight year of drop in opioid overdose deaths

The Saint Louis County Department of Public Health today announced the launch of naloxone vending machines through its new “I Carry for My Community” campaign, an innovative effort to expand access to the life- saving opioid overdose reversal medication.

These machines will be placed in key community hubs and high-need areas, guided by overdose data, particularly in North County.

This harm reduction initiative comes as Saint Louis County marks its third consecutive year of declining opioid overdose deaths, with 161 overdose fatalities reported in 2024— down from 338 in 2021, a more than 50% decrease. Encouragingly in 2024, the County has seen declines across all reported demographics, including race and gender, underscoring the effectiveness of a multi-pronged, community-informed approach.

More data on overdose deaths in Saint Louis County can be found on the newly launched Overdose Dashboard.

“Every life is worth saving, and no one should lose a loved one to something preventable,” said County Executive Sam Page. “Three years of declining overdose deaths prove our investment in harm reduction is working. With free Narcan at our clinics, libraries, and now these vending machines, we are removing barriers, breaking stigma, and giving our community the tools to save lives.”  Dr. Page, a longtime advocate for opioid response and the architect of Saint LouisCounty’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, joined Dr. Kanika Cunningham, DPH Director, and local partners at as press event to unveil the vending machines and highlight community partnerships.

“The goal of harm reduction is simple – to keep people alive,” said Dr. Cunningham. “Naloxone saves lives. By making it widely available through these vending machines,we’re empowering residents to step in during critical moments and potentially prevent a

tragic loss. The data also guides us to the communities that need these resources the most.”

As part of the campaign Naloxone vending machines will be installed in accessible public spaces, including near businesses and nonprofit hubs. The initial locations include the three DPH health centers and well as the following businesses:

• Beyond Housing 24:1 Cinema – 6755 Page Avenue 63133
• Dollar General – 6225 North Hanley Road 63134
• Northwest Airport Inn – 3570 North Lindbergh Boulevard 63074
• Cutt’n Headz Hair Center – 6853 Howdershell Road 63042
• Recovery Housing – 5218 Ville-Cecelia Lane 63042
• River Rock Church – 1601 Telegraph Road 63125

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