Many people overdose in the presence of their partners or peers, thus empowering friends, family and other bystanders to act effectively, before emergency services arrive at the scene, can save lives. Studies show that the provision of the overdose antidote, naloxone, along with appropriate training, can be effective in reducing overdose deaths. The EMCDDA’s first summary of take-home naloxone programmes in Europe is presented in a new online topic overview. In 2019, 11 EU Member States and Norway report running naloxone programmes or allowing access to the medicine without prescription.