In April 2015, Colorado passed a new law, Senate Bill 15-053, expanding access to the life-saving drug naloxone, which is used to reverse overdoses to narcotic drugs, such as certain prescription medications and heroin. As a result of the new law, a physician – or any medical professional with prescriptive authority – can write a standing order for naloxone that can be dispensed by other designated individuals (such as pharmacists and harm reduction organizations).

With these standing orders, pharmacists and harm reduction organizations can now provide naloxone to those who might benefit from it the most including:

• A family member, friend or other person in a position to assist a person at risk of overdose

• An employee or volunteer of a harm reduction organization.

• A first responder

• An individual at risk of overdose.

AllHealth Network Pharmacy is driven to raise awareness around naloxone and to increase access to this potentially life-saving medication. In 2016, AllHealth Network Pharmacy established a drug protocol to distribute naloxone, an emergency medication that will reverse opioid-induced overdoses. Our pharmacy staff, in conjunction with the AllHealth Network teams, participated in outreach events to educate and train on the proper usage of naloxone kit in the event of an opioid overdose.

We realize the urgency of the opioid epidemic and are committed to work with all involved parties as a united front against the opioid epidemic. If you, or someone you know, should have access to naloxone, please contact the pharmacy for additional information.