Life-Saving Naloxone from Pharmacies

People who may need naloxone are not all getting it.

There is wide variation in prescribing and dispensing across the US despite consistent state laws and recommendations. Dispensing naloxone in areas hardest hit by the opioid overdose epidemic can increase the number of overdose reversals and the opportunity to link overdose survivors into treatment.

Actions needed to improve access locally.

Examples include:

• Reducing insurance co-pay for patients.
• Increasing provider training and education.
• Targeting distribution especially in rural areas.

Pharmacists and Other Healthcare Providers Can:

• Monitor patients for risk of overdose, prescribe or dispense naloxone when overdose risk factors are present, and counsel patients on how to use it.
• Ensure naloxone is always available in pharmacies.
• Participate in and offer naloxone training and education.

Health Insurers Can:

• Reduce patient out-of-pocket costs.
• Cover naloxone prescriptions without prior approval.

States and Communities Can:

• Work with healthcare providers to expand naloxone access, especially in rural areas.
• Promote the benefits of prescribing, dispensing, and carrying naloxone.
• Create harm reduction programs and improve access to medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder.

Everyone Can:

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a naloxone prescription if  you or a loved one are taking  high-dose opioids or have a substance use disorder.