Harrisburg, PA - More than 4,000 kits of naloxone were distributed yesterday as part of Stop Overdoses in PA: Get Help Now Week, a statewide initiative to get the overdose reversal medication naloxone to Pennsylvanians and get help for residents suffering from the disease of opioid-use disorder. The next naloxone distribution is slated for September 25.
“It is essential for people to have the lifesaving medication naloxone on hand,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “We are excited that Pennsylvanians are stepping up to help save lives. We are excited to provide more naloxone to residents on September 25, providing more people with the opportunity to get naloxone.”
As part of Stop Overdoses in PA: Get Help Now Week, thousands of residents went to a state health center, county/municipal health department or other location yesterday to pick up naloxone for free.
For the September 25 distribution, 78 locations will have naloxone available. Residents can visit state health centers and county or municipal health departments from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., as supplies last. Some locations are operating at different hours, so for the most up-to-date map of locations, visit the Department of Health’s website. The department will be updating the map throughout the day to let people know if naloxone is still available at the location they want to visit.
After Pennsylvanians obtain their free naloxone, the Department of Health is challenging Pennsylvanians to share on their social media pages why they carry naloxone. Throughout September, the department will be sharing these short testimonials from residents who carry naloxone. Individuals who post their videos are encouraged to use the hashtag #WhyICarryNaloxone, to caption their video.
In addition to being able to get naloxone for free on the distribution days, it is carried at most pharmacies across the state year-round. Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine issued a standing order prescription to any Pennsylvanian to get naloxone at a pharmacy for anyone who may need it. Naloxone is available to many with public and private insurance at pharmacies either for free or at a low cost.
“It is important that people are aware that they can also go to their local pharmacy on any day to get the overdose reversal medication naloxone,” Dr. Levine said. “This medication reverses the effects of an opioid overdose and gives the patient a chance at recovery.”
Additional information on Stop Overdoses Week and naloxone can be found on the state’s website at www.pa.gov/opioids us on Facebook and Twitter.
MEDIA CONTACT: Nate Wardle, 717-787-1783, RA-DHPressOffice@pa.gov
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