What does a standing order for naloxone enable pharmacists to do?

A standing order for naloxone allows pharmacists to dispense specified naloxone formulations to anyone requesting it. This is significant because standing orders are designed to increase access to naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal drug, in a proactive manner. Under such an order, pharmacists can provide naloxone to individuals without requiring a traditional prescription. This approach is crucial in efforts to combat the opioid crisis, as it enables people at risk of overdose, their family members, friends, or caregivers to obtain naloxone easily and without the hurdles of having to demonstrate a specific patient-provider relationship.

This capability directly supports public health goals by promoting broader distribution of naloxone and potentially saving lives in cases of overdose. By making naloxone available to anyone who may need it, the standing order also fosters a community response to the opioid epidemic, reducing the stigma associated with seeking treatment and supporting harm reduction strategies.