THE national expansion of the free Take Home Naloxone (THN) program from 01 Jul (PD 27 Jun) is being welcomed by the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), with National President Fei Sim saying pharmacists will play a key role in ensuring the rollout of the scheme is successful.
Under the national program naloxone will be available across Australia for free and without a prescription, to anyone who may experience, or witness, an opioid overdose or adverse reaction.
The expansion of the scheme into all jurisdictions follows a trial of the scheme in NSW, Western Australia and South Australia.
"Naloxone saves lives," Sim said.
"During the pilot three lives were saved each day, but with wider access we expect to see an even greater impact.
"As our most accessible healthcare professionals, community pharmacists will play a critical role in ensuring that every Australian can access this life-saving medicine," she said.
"One dose of naloxone previously cost around $40, but from 01 Jul anyone can walk into their local pharmacy and receive two free doses of naloxone, as well as expert advice from pharmacists about how to administer it," Sim added, noting that the trial had shown that the harm caused by excessive opioid use could be reduced by making medicines such as naloxone more accessible and removing cost barriers.
"Anyone taking opioids for pain management, or caring for someone who does, should collect naloxone from their local pharmacist. We can also provide advice about identifying an opioid overdose," the PSA chief said.
"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.
"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."
Fees for supplying naloxone range from $40 to $50 depending on the product supplied.
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