As of 1 July, pharmacists are now able to provide free naloxone to customers as part of the national rollout of the Take Home Naloxone (THN) program.
Under the national program naloxone, which is said to rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose or adverse reaction, will be available across Australia for free and without a prescription.
The national rollout of the THN program has been welcomed by the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) who say pharmacists will be key to the success of this rollout due to their accessibility and expertise.
“Naloxone saves lives,” PSA National President Dr Fei Sim said.
“During the pilot, three lives were saved each day, but with wider access, we expect to see an even greater impact.”
Dr Sim says that previously one dose of naloxone cost approximately $40 but from 1 July two free doses of naloxone will be available, along with expert advice from pharmacists on how to administer the medication.
According to Dr Sim, the naloxone trial shows that by making medications such as naloxone more accessible, harm caused by excessive opioid use can be reduced.
Dr Sim says that anyone taking opioid medication for pain management, or anyone caring for someone using opioid medication, should collect naloxone from their local pharmacy.
Pharmacists are also available to provide advice on identifying opioid overdose, she says.
“Over recent years we have seen more cases of illicit party drugs being spiked with acetyl-fentanyl, which can cause opioid overdoses even in small amounts,” Dr Sim said.
“We are urging young people who use recreational drugs like cocaine to visit their local pharmacy and carry naloxone on a night out.
“Your pharmacist is there to provide judgement-free, expert advice, on when and how to use this life-saving drug.
“It could save your life or the life of a friend.”
Take-home naloxone will also be available through non-pharmacy sites such as alcohol and drug treatment centres and needle and syringe programs in New South Wales, South Australia, and Western Australia from 1 July 2022, and in Tasmania, Victoria, Queensland, and the ACT from 1 November 2022.
