THE Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has praised pharmacists for the role they play in supporting patients taking prescription opioids.
In its first year, the PSA said the Take Home Naloxone (THN) program has managed to save thousands of lives.
Beginning on 1 Jul, 2022, THN has been used by around 3,000 Australians experiencing opioid overdose or adverse reaction equating to eight uses per day.
National President of the PSA, Dr Fei Sim, thanked pharmacists for the results.
"Evidence from the first year of the THN program shows that pharmacists are well-placed to provide naloxone, whether alongside a prescribed opioid or as a stand-alone supply," she said.
"As our most accessible healthcare professionals, pharmacists have distributed over 90% of naloxone for the THN Program.
"To ensure ongoing sustainability and impact, pharmacists must be empowered and supported to provide this life-saving service."
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