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New Jersey's Free Naloxone Program Surpasses 132,000 Doses in First Year
New Jersey Human Services Gave Out More than 132,000 Doses of Opioid Overdose Antidote During First Year of Free Naloxone at Pharmacy Program
The New Jersey Department of Human Services revealed that over 132,000 doses of naloxone, an opioid overdose antidote, have been distributed during the first year of a new statewide program. This initiative, part of the Murphy Administration's efforts, allows residents to access naloxone, a life-saving medication, anonymously and free of charge at participating pharmacies nationwide.
Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman highlighted the program's impact, noting, “Each dose of naloxone represents a second chance.” She emphasized the program’s success in making naloxone accessible at 664 pharmacies statewide, found on stopoverdoses.nj.gov, ensuring more opportunities for saving lives and aiding recovery.
Naloxone, known for rapidly reversing opioid overdoses, is part of the broader Naloxone365 initiative. Individuals aged 14 and over can acquire naloxone at participating pharmacies without a prescription, name, or reason. Each visit provides a two-dose naloxone nasal spray kit.
During its inaugural year, the program dispensed 66,007 two-dose kits through pharmacies. To promote this initiative, Human Services collaborated with pharmacies and launched a multi-million-dollar bilingual advertising campaign.
Deputy Commissioner for Health Services Lisa Asare urged residents to keep naloxone on hand, stating, “You never know when you may need to save a life.” Assistant Commissioner Valerie Mielke, overseeing the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, emphasized naloxone's role in offering a chance to address substance use disorder effects.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin lauded the Department of Human Services' achievements in addressing the opioid epidemic, acknowledging the crucial role of pharmacies in the Naloxone365 program and the broader efforts to build a healthier New Jersey.
Commissioner Adelman also directed individuals seeking addiction assistance to ReachNJ, a 24/7 addictions helpline at 1-844-ReachNJ (732-2465). The service provides immediate support from trained addiction counselors and assists individuals, regardless of income or health insurance status, in accessing treatment without financial burden.
