Navigating Take Home Naloxone - 117

Hello, and welcome to another episode of Cracking Addiction!

Today, we have a fascinating discussion on a critical topic: take-home naloxone. Joining me are two experts in the field, Jeremy Szmerling and Dr. Suzanne Nielsen, as we delve into the details of this lifesaving solution.

Why Listen:
In this episode, we shine a light on take-home naloxone and its role as an antidote to opioid toxicity. We address common misconceptions, debunking the myth that its availability will increase risky behaviour. Our experts emphasize the importance of offering naloxone to anyone at risk of opioid overdose, whether they use illicit opioids or are prescribed opioid analgesics. Additionally, we provide insights into how clinicians can confidently identify and deliver naloxone training.

Key Points:
1. Take-home naloxone is an opioid antagonist, serving as an antidote to opioid toxicity.
2. The availability of naloxone without a prescription allows pharmacists to dispense it to patients in need.
3. Opioid toxicity can lead to serious side effects and, in extreme cases, even death.
4. Prescription opioid overdose is a significant issue, highlighting the need for naloxone in the broader population.
5. Offering naloxone to those prescribed opioids for chronic pain is an effective and cost-saving strategy.

Interesting Fact: 
Did you know that a study conducted in Australia found that the majority of patients who received naloxone and used it were those on prescription opioids, not illicit opioids? This highlights the importance of addressing prescription opioid overdose as a critical concern.

Call to Action:
If you're a healthcare provider, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with take-home naloxone and confidently offer it as a preventative measure to patients at risk of opioid overdose. By providing education about opioid safety and the availability of naloxone, you can play a vital role in reducing harm and saving lives.

Best Quote: 
"As healthcare providers, we need to feel confident that providing naloxone and education about overdose reversal will only help someone reduce their risk, not contribute to risky substance use." - Dr. Suzanne Nielsen

Learning Outcomes:
1. Gain a comprehensive understanding of take-home naloxone and its role as an opioid antagonist.
2. Learn about the legislative framework allowing pharmacists to dispense naloxone without a prescription.
3. Recognise the signs and symptoms of opioid toxicity and the serious consequences it can have.
4. Understand that naloxone is not limited to those with heroin use disorder but should be offered to anyone at risk of opioid overdose.
5. Gain insights into strategies for delivering naloxone training and overcoming barriers to its uptake.

Actionable Takeaways:
1. Familiarise yourself with local legislation surrounding the dispensing of naloxone without a prescription.
2. Incorporate discussions about naloxone and opioid safety in routine visits with patients on prescription opioids.
3. Use appropriate language when addressing naloxone to different populations to ensure clear communication.
4. Offer naloxone to anyone at risk of opioid overdose, regardless of whether they use illicit or prescription opioids.
5. Advocate for the availability and accessibility of naloxone in various settings, such as pharmacies and safe injecting rooms.

I have also just begun a new series of short 8-second clips I’m calling Daily Dose Addiction Facts, they are on X and Youtube. Click one of the links below.
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Warm regards,

Dr. Ferghal Armstrong
Host, Cracking Addiction Podcast