Dispensing Naloxone Without a Prescription: Survey Evaluation of Ohio Pharmacists

Abstract

Additional educational programs should be delivered to Ohio pharmacists to inform them of the state law and policies. Continuing education programs that review substance abuse and attempt to reduce social stigma may assist with increasing naloxone distribution to those in need, especially, if directed toward younger pharmacists in Ohio.

Pharmacist roles, training, and perceived barriers in naloxone dispensing: A systematic review

“…that include beliefs that naloxone dispensing could promote increased opioid use, attract undesirable patients to their pharmacy, or put the pharmacist in an unsafe situation. 39,43,44 These barriers aligned with findings from a study conducted specifically with patients who used injection drugs. 42 Pharmacist willingness to dispense naloxone is affected also by confidence of pharmacists in addition to time constraints, lack of support from management or prescribers, and perceived lack of patient understanding.…”

“…In addition, there is a necessity for destigmatization of naloxone dispensing and communicating about opioid risks among pharmacists in all practice settings. 41,44,65 The naloxone communication guide recently made available by the American Pharmacists Association is a helpful resource to guide pharmacists about communication regarding naloxone. 66 The Department of Health and Human Services also recommends and provides guidance about coprescribing naloxone for opioid overdose.…”

“…They had limited confidence in their ability to educate patients on overdose and were uncomfortable dispensing naloxone without a physician. 26,43,44 Pharmacists identified areas for additional training to include naloxone education, communication strategies, identifying patients who would benefit from naloxone, and guidance on service implementation. 46 These studies highlight how extent of training and education for pharmacists may contribute to the large discrepancies between naloxone stocking and dispensing, and between pharmacist willingness and confidence to dispense naloxone.…”

Provision of Naloxone Without a Prescription by California Pharmacists 2 Years After Legislation Implementation

“…Reasons the practice was not being implemented may include lack of knowledge of legislation, lack of required training, stigma about substance use disorder, and time. 4,5 With only 50.6% of pharmacies stocking nasal naloxone, patients may face a delay in access to the drug.…”

Opioid Use Disorders in Adolescents—Updates in Assessment and Management

“…Naloxone is a short acting opioid antagonist that can be administered intramuscularly, intranasally, or intravenously to reverse an opioid overdose. Most health insurances cover naloxone, and in some states naloxone can be accessed over the counter in retail pharmacies [63]. …”