Point-of-sale Naloxone: Novel Community-based Research to Identify Naloxone Availability

Introduction: Expanding naloxone availability is important to reduce opioid-related deaths. Recent data suggest low, variable urban naloxone availability. No reports describe naloxone availability at the point of sale (POSN). We characterize POSN without prescription across a Midwestern metropolitan area, via a unique poison center-based study.Methods: Pharmacies were randomly sampled within a seven-county metropolitan area, geospatially mapped, and distributed among seven investigators, who visited pharmacies and asked, “May I purchase naloxone here without a prescription from my doctor?” Following “No,” investigators asked, “Are you aware of the state statute that allows you to dispense naloxone to the public under a standing order?” Materials describing statutory support for POSN were provided. Respon ses were uploaded to REDCap in real time. We excluded specialty (veterinary, mail order, or infusion) pharmacies a priori. POSN availability...
Source: Western Journal of Emergency Medicine - Category: Emergency Medicine Source Type: research