Naloxone, a proven life-saving antidote, reverses the effects of overdose for both pharmaceutical and illicit opioid drugs like oxycodone, heroin, morphine and fentanyl. Victoria's Take-Home Naloxone Program recognises the urgency of addressing overdose incidents and aims to make this medication readily available to those who need it the most.

The program empowers approved workers in recognised organisations to distribute naloxone at no cost to individuals at risk of opioid overdose or those likely to witness such incidents. This includes caregivers, families, and friends of individuals who use opioids. The initiative ensures community members can swiftly respond to life-threatening situations by facilitating access through approved channels.

Those who obtain naloxone from an approved organisation can administer it to others at risk. The program aligns with existing distribution channels, allowing naloxone to be obtained through prescriptions or over the counter at local pharmacies. This includes pharmacies registered with the Australian Government's Take-Home Naloxone program, which provides the medication for free and without a prescription.

Importantly, these strategic changes are designed to reduce opioid overdose-related morbidity and mortality by making naloxone more accessible to community members who may have limited engagement with traditional health services. This forward-thinking approach underscores Victoria's commitment to tackling opioid-related harms and fostering a safer and healthier community.

Clinical Director of the Hamilton Centre, Associate Professor Shalini Arunogiri, said:

From an integrated care perspective, this is a critical step in ensuring broader access to this life-saving medication, including for consumers accessing mental health services across Victoria. Its really important that workers and clinicians across both MH and AOD services stay up to date with these changes, so we can ensure that the consumers and families we serve don’t miss out. Part of this is identifying where people may be at risk of opioid use disorder and at risk of an overdose, and to know how to have a conversation with consumers and families to support them to access appropriate care and help”.