Naloxone is a drug that can reverse opioid overdoses, saving the lives of people who are at risk of drug related death. It is recommended that all people on Opiate Replacement Therapy (ORT) or using other opiates are given a supply. It can also be supplied to relatives, friends and carers of people who are at risk of overdose.
In Primary Care Naloxone can be issued on a standard prescription or supplied from a stock order. Some pharmacies can supply it directly. (It can also be supplied without a prescription or PGD in specific drug treatment services e.g. those providing injecting equipment or ORT).
Naloxone is now available in two forms – an intramuscular injection (Prenoxad) and an intranasal spray (Nyxoid). Both should be prescribed by brand name to ensure correct kit. Resources for both staff and patients are listed below.
Further information can be obtained from:
- NHS Lothian’s Harm Reduction Team (who also run Training for trainers) – ssc.trainer@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk
- Please also see the Harm Reduction Team website
- The Primary Care Facilitator Team – pcft.lothian@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk.
image copyright NHS Lothian
