Opinion: Naloxone Can’t Be Our Only Solution to a Growing Drug Overdose Problem

San Diego, a city celebrated for its scenic coastline and vibrant culture, is not immune to the opioid epidemic. Like many urban centers, our city and larger county face dual challenges: substance use disorder and the rise of illicit fentanyl, both of which have deeply affected our communities.

While efforts are being made to curb the epidemic’s impact and reduce skyrocketing overdose rates through the Naloxone Distribution Project and the recent deal between CalRx and Amneal Pharmaceuticals for $24 naloxone, the focus on one product is incredibly worrisome from a psychologist’s perspective. There seems to be a disconnect between statewide strategies, which often appear more performative, and the urgent, nuanced needs of local communities.

Despite reported successes of drug seizures and getting more naloxone in the hands of those who need it, illicit fentanyl continues to infiltrate San Diego streets. This highly potent synthetic opioid, which is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine, is responsible for a staggering 87% of overdose deaths in the state.

Ensuring widespread access to naloxone is essential; however, many are overlooking the fact that naloxone should not be the only tool in our arsenal. Particularly when we’re up against an overdose crisis largely fueled by fentanyl, it’s imperative for San Diego to move forward with a multifaceted approach that provides access to all FDA-approved reversal medications in addition to counseling and other preventive measures.

Unfortunately, our city and state’s current policies are rather outdated, only focusing on one product because it was the only product at the time. In the wake of newer, stronger synthetic opioids and other illicit drugs, several legislators, including San Diego’s own Assemblymember Akilah Weber, are stepping up. I commend these members for sending a letter to the California Department of Public Health requesting they expand the standing order for naloxone to encompass all FDA-approved opioid reversal medications.

It’s time for all policymakers and public health officials to do the same and follow in the footsteps of other states who have started using newer nasal sprays tailored to combat fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. Embracing comprehensive approaches that not only expand access to proven products, but also incorporate a robust support system, are pivotal steps to take if we’re serious about saving more lives and reversing the effects of the opioid epidemic on our communities.

As a psychologist, I help individuals navigate many different challenges — from feeling depressed or anxious to managing a chronic condition that is interfering with their lives or physical health. Because there are so many different types of solutions, I take the time to talk to my patient and work with them to identify the best approach to address their problem. This is what the state should do, as well as local public health officials.

San Diegans need and deserve a better chance of survival and recovery — a diverse arsenal of overdose reversal tools and expanding access to mental health services, addiction treatment programs, and community-based support networks will do just that.

The health and wellbeing of all Californians are at a critical juncture. While Gov. Gavin Newsom’s efforts are a step in the right direction, more needs to be done to save more lives from fentanyl.

By adopting and incorporating a wider range of opioid reversal medications and enhancing support services, we can better protect our communities well into the future. The cost of inaction must now be measured in human lives — a price far too steep for our city to bear.

Dr. Hector Martinez is a board member of Patient Advocates United in San Diego County and community mental health clinician.