NEW JERSEY – Last week, Governor Phil Murphy announced that naloxone, the opioid overdose reversal drug, will be given out for free on Tuesday, June 18th.
New Jersey residents will be able to visit pharmacies that are participating and anonymously obtain naloxone for free, without a prescription or an appointment. The one-day distribution of free naloxone is part of a pilot program approved by the New Jersey Board of Pharmacy.
“The scourge of opioids continues to devastate families and communities across our state, and we must do everything we can to end the opioid epidemic,” Murphy said. “Through this initiative, people who are battling with addiction will be able to receive access to this critical medication and help them get on a path to recovery.”
Naloxone will be available at select locations of chain pharmacies such as Walgreens, Rite Aid, ShopRite, and CVS as well as at community pharmacies across the state. Naloxone will be given out on a first-come, first-serve basis. People who obtain naloxone during the pilot program will be given information regarding addiction treatment and recovery.
“Naloxone access is essential to reversing the tide of the epidemic. That’s why I signed a standing order for pharmacists to dispense it to individuals and families without a prescription,” New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Shereef Elnahal said. “Pharmacists should visit our website. We are excited that free naloxone day is taking positive steps to increasing access to this life-saving drug.”
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