User-centered development of a web application to promote naloxone carrying among supporters of adults with opioid prescriptions.

Introduction: There is a critical need for new approaches to prevent opioid overdose; one is to expand the use of naloxone. Primary supporters of patients with opioid prescriptions are key in this role, though many hesitate to carry and administer naloxone. An insufficient understanding of supporters' experiences limits the ability to develop resources that will engage and promote naloxone use in this group. Web applications (apps) are accessible and can address concerns, though the preferences and needs of the supporters are poorly understood. This study was designed to identify (a) barriers and facilitators to naloxone use among supporters, and (b) preferences for a web app to provide relevant resources (e.g., content, design elements).

Method: Participants (N = 16, M_age = 43, 50% racial/ethnic minority identification) identified as a patient's family member (87.5%) or friend (12.5%) and completed a semistructured interview.

Results: Thematic analysis identified patterns in supporters' responses: a wide range of experiences (including ambivalence), anxiety for themselves and the patient, lack of knowledge about naloxone, and desire for clear communication from providers. They expressed interest in a web app for supporters and preferred an interface that guides them through its use. Responses also conveyed appreciation for validating their challenges, a preference for a mature tone to app content, and high acceptability of the app prototype.

Discussion: Findings show that user-centered design informed a digital tool that is responsive to the unique needs of those who could help to prevent deaths from opioid overdose; this tool warrants testing in large, diverse groups of supporters. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).