Those searching for the opioid overdose antidote drug naloxone now have a new web-based resource to rely on in the Garden State.
StopOverdoses.nj.gov is live as of Aug. 7, according to Human Services Acting Commissioner Sarah Adelman, who said the resource will serve residents searching for pharmacies that offer the life-saving naloxone anonymously and at no cost.
Adelman noted the initiative was part of the Murphy Administration’s focus on the opioid crisis, and its efforts to save lives by expanding access to the medication.
Response to Opioid Crisis
“Making naloxone accessible and available for free and anonymously in pharmacies eliminates the most common barriers to the life-saving medication, helps reduce stigma, and ultimately may encourage people to seek treatment and long-term recovery,” the Commissioner noted.
Gov. Phil Murphy announced the Naloxone365 Initiative as part of his January State of the State Address. Under the program, those ages 14 and older can request and obtain naloxone at participating pharmacies for free.
Over 600 Outlets
Those requesting the drug do not need to provide a name or reason, and no prescription is required.
“Together with our partners at the Department of Human Services we are working to ensure that all New Jerseyans are able to obtain this life-saving medication anonymously and free of charge at pharmacies throughout the state,” said Attorney General Matt Platkin.
The program currently has 610 pharmacies participating, and 40,687 naloxone kits have since been distributed. Human Services said it continues to engage more pharmacies to participate in the program.
What is Naloxone?
Naloxone is a medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose when administered, and specifically counters decreased breathing during an overdose. When administered intravenously, the drug’s effects begin within two minutes; when administered via injection into a muscle, effects can begin within five minutes.
The drug is said to block the effects of opioids for 30 to 90 minutes, and emergency medical services data from Massachusetts found 93.5% of people given the drug survived their overdose, according to a 2017 CNN report.
The drug is sold under the brand names Narcan, Kloxxado, Nalone, Evzio, Prenoxad Injection, Narcanti, Narcotan, and Zimhi, but the patent has since expired allowing its availability as a generic medication.
