Increasing accessibility to lifesaving naloxone
The Alfred is the first site of a lifesaving naloxone vending machine trial, thanks to the ongoing passion and efforts of our addiction medicine specialists.
Naloxone is a highly safe, non-addictive drug that reverses the effects of opioid overdose. When taken in time, it gives the affected person or those administering the spray the opportunity to get emergency medical assistance.
As part of an Australian-first, The Alfred is home to one of 20 vending machines across the state - each offering free and timely access to the medication 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
There may be many reasons a person will need to keep naloxone on-hand. They may be someone who is prescribed opioid-based pain relief, or who has unknowingly ingested opioids, or it may be part of the harm reduction puzzle for a substance user.
Senior Addictions Nurse Practitioner at The Alfred Megan McKechnie said the initiative will break down barriers and stigma when it comes to accessing care.
“Having the vending machines located in places like The Alfred allows people to easily access the services and treatment they need,” Megan said.
“The more chances we have to do that, the healthier and better off our communities will be.”
Lead staff from Alfred Mental and Addiction Health were joined by Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt to announce the Victorian trial. With the Minister were Nina Taylor MP, Ryan Batchelor MP and John Berger MP.
The naloxone vending machine is located close by The Alfred's Emergency and Trauma Centre, outside the building.
