The Take Home Naloxone (THN) program for Albertans is now live. On January 20, 2016, the Alberta Blue Cross Benefact #575 was sent to pharmacies across Alberta with details on how to participate in the THN program. Pharmacists can access the 30-minute, accredited training program on the Alberta Pharmacists’ Association (RxA) website.
Pharmacists are expected to complete the training program prior to dispensing Naloxone kits. Upon completion of training pharmacists will be required to register with AHS and will only then be able to order kits from McKesson.
Naloxone is currently only available by prescription to those at risk of opioid overdose. Pharmacists are reminded that Naloxone is a Schedule 1 drug, which means it can only be dispensed pursuant to a prescription. Third party prescribing is not permitted. Friends and family members of those who use opioids are encouraged to take part in the THN training however they cannot receive a prescription for a THN kit.
For questions about the THN program, please contact RxA or Alberta Health Services (AHS). For questions relating to standards of practice, please contact ACP.
General information about Naloxone, opioids (including fentanyl), overdose, signs and symptoms, and more is available on the AHS website at www.drugsfool.ca.
