Availability of Naloxone in Pharmacies and Knowledge of Pharmacy Staff Regarding Dispensing Naloxone to Younger Adolescents

Abstract

PurposeThis study assessed the immediate availability of naloxone in pharmacies and the knowledge of pharmacy staff regarding naloxone dispensing protocols, especially as it relates to younger adolescents. MethodsThe primary sample included pharmacies in the 10 states with the highest number of opioid-related overdose deaths in 2016; in addition, pharmacies in the 2 states with the highest prevalence of opioid-related overdose deaths in 2016 were also contacted. Researchers simulated a routine conversation between pharmacy staff and a potential customer about the immediate availability of and requirements to purchase naloxone. ResultsThe primary sample included 120 pharmacies (82.5% chain pharmacies; 50.8% rural). The majority (80.3%) had at least one form of naloxone in stock. Pharmacy staff were knowledgeable about prescription and third-party purchasing requirements. However, almost half incorrectly responded that there was a minimum age requirement to purchase naloxone. ConclusionThis study reveals barriers to obtaining naloxone, including a lack of immediate in-store availability and a common misperception that naloxone cannot be dispensed to minors.