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Naloxone FAQ What is naloxone?
An FDA approved opioid antagonist prescription medication that reverses opioid overdoses. Two of the most common ways that naloxone is administered are intranasally (nasal spray) and the auto-injector. Naloxone is available under the names of” naloxone,” an injectable that, with attachments can also be used as a nasal spray; “NARCAN,” an already assembled and easy to administer nasal spray; and, finally “EVZO,” a prefilled auto-injector.
How does it work?
It stops or reverses the effects of an opioid overdose and restores breathing within two (2) to eight (8) minutes. The naloxone effect lasts from 20 to 90 minutes, and can be safely readministered as indicated.
Is it safe?
Yes. It cannot be used to get high and it is non-addictive . Where do I find an approved training? Free in-person NARCAN administration training is available at Prevention Point Philadelphia. Where do I find an approved online training and how long does training take? www.getnaloxonenow.org https://www.pavtn.net/act-139-training http://prescribetoprevent.org/patient-education/videos/ Training takes approximately 20 minutes. Does Act 139 under Provision of Good Samaritan cover provider agencies?
Yes.
How do we obtain naloxone?
Providers will have to purchase by prescription. Individuals may do so by prescription or by standing order issued by Pennsylvania’s Physician General, Dr. Rachel Levine. Some pharmacies keep this standing order on file.
NALOXONE/NARCAN FAQ Page 1
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Naloxone FAQ (continued)
Does Medical Assistance require prior authorization for any of the naloxone products?
The Evzio Auto-Injector is covered by Medical Assistance, but requires prior authorization. Generic naloxone is covered without the need for prior authorization.
Does Medicaid pay for naloxone?
Yes.
Who pays for the naloxone a provider is expected to stock?
The provider. Is there a difference in dosing for adolescents?
No. All forms of naloxone may be administered to both adults (including pregnant women) and children. Does naloxone expire?
Yes. Providers are expected to review each naloxone kit/package on their receipt for an expiration date and periodically thereafter to assure the medication is up-to-date. As with other medications, all expired naloxone kits/packages should be appropriately and safely disposed of and replaced in timely fashion. Does CBH, OAS or DBHIDS have policies/procedures for storage and/or administration of naloxone?
Yes, CBH has drafted an internal policy. However, Providers are expected to develop their own policies and procedures, which will be reviewed by the DBHIDS’ NIAC department. Does DDAP permit drug-free facilities to maintain and dispense naloxone? Yes. Facilities are required to develop related policies and procedures regarding the acquisition, storage, administration and safe disposal of naloxone. Naloxone is to be kept in a locked medicine room or locked cabinet. The policy should include required staff training and who is designated to administer the medication. A written inventory log must be maintained and it should include date received, date expired, date administered, person who administered and the person who received the medication. Naloxone stored at the facility should be reviewed for expiration at least monthly and all expired Naloxone should be quickly and safely discarded.
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