WHO Recommends Increased Naloxone Access Worldwide

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidelines aimed at reducing the number of opioid-related deaths globally. The recommendations include expanding access to naloxone, the drug that can help to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, for people who are most likely to witness an overdose in their communities, including friends, family members, and partners of people who are most at risk. In most countries, naloxone is currently accessible only through hospitals and ambulance crews who may not be able to administer the drug in time to prevent an injury or death related to an overdose. In October 2014, NABP issued a policy statement promoting an active role for pharmacists in expanding access to the drug.