CUPHD distributing free generic Narcan to county residents

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) is transitioning to a new, free generic nasal spray to combat opioid overdoses across the county.

Through its Overdose Prevention Program, CUPHD will now distribute Padagis Naloxone Nasal Spray instead of the brand-name drug Narcan. The shift comes as the State of Illinois transitions to the lower-cost generic. Officials say the new version contains the same 4mg dose of naloxone and works identically to reverse overdoses, but the lower cost will stretch public funding further to increase community access.

"We're excited to offer this generic version of Narcan," said Harm Reduction Program Coordinator Joe Trotter. "Naloxone has worked so well to reduce overdose deaths in our community and now this Padagis version will allow us to continue our work in the opioid crisis."

CUPHD distributed more than 28,000 free kits in 2024 and 2025 combined. According to health department data, Champaign County's opioid-related deaths dropped 67.5% from 2023 to 2024. Though 2025 saw a slight uptick, overdose deaths remained 55% lower than 2023 levels.

The life-saving kits are free and can be picked up in the CUPHD lobby at 201 W. Kenyon Road in Champaign. Residents can also request delivery by calling 217-531-5370 or emailing jtrotter@c-uphd.org.