A CANADIAN pharmacist who distributed naloxone kits without a prescription in a neighbourhood decimated by opioid abuse, has admitted to professional misconduct.
The London, Ontario-based pharmacist, Jason Newman, told a disciplinary hearing that his action had "certainly saved lives".
However, the panel suspended Newman for a month and issued an oral reprimand for his action.
Newman has also been ordered to undertake an ethics course within the next 12 months or face a second month's suspension from the profession.
He told the hearing that while he was aware his actions contravened professional standards, he was inspired to act when he visited a homeless shelter, but was not allowed to offer training in the use of naloxone.
"I decided it was necessary to train people around the area as quickly as possible," he said.
A lawyer for the Ontario College of Pharmacists described Newman's motives as "appropriate and laudable" and stressed it was not alleging any dishonest or disgraceful conduct.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 08 Nov 19
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 08 Nov 19