The Victorian Government has installed more naloxone dispensing machines at key locations across the state to improve free access to the lifesaving overdose medication.
Naloxone is a safe, lifesaving medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose, including from heroin, prescription opioids and synthetic opioids.
The machines operate 24/7, dispensing the free, lifesaving overdose medication at the push of a button. The spray can be administered by anyone – simply by following the instructions included in the packaging.
The new dispensers will be located at Corio Community Health Centre, University Hospital Geelong, Peninsula University Hospital in Frankston, and Wonthaggi Hospital.
“Every overdose death is a tragedy. We’re taking action to spare more families and loved ones that pain,” said Minister for Mental Health, Ingrid Stitt.
“Free naloxone, available around the clock, means anyone can step in during an overdose and buy precious time until emergency help arrives.”
A further three dispensers are being installed at cohealth Footscray, Royal Melbourne Hospital and Dandenong Hospital.
It takes the total number of dispensers to 17 across the state, with machines already installed at:
- Ballarat Community Health
- Bendigo Community Health Services
- Gippsland Lakes Complete Health
- Sunraysia Community Health Service
- Latrobe Community Health Service
- Alfred Hospital
- Your Community Health (East Reservoir)
- Primary Care Connect Shepparton
- Sunshine Hospital
- Gateway Health Wangaratta
The remaining three locations in the City of Yarra and City of Melbourne will be confirmed in the coming weeks, the Government said.
From this week, hospital EDs and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations can also participate in Victoria’s Take-Home Naloxone Program. They join participating Needle and Syringe Programs, Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals and the Victorian Pill Testing Service already providing free naloxone.
