Santa Clara Naloxone Revolution: Santa Clara County launched free naloxone vending machines to combat the opioid issue. The Santa Clara County Opioid Overdose Prevention Project (SCCOOPP) strategically deploys naloxone dispensers in prisons, schools, and community centers to make this lifesaving treatment accessible.
Since its initiation in the fall of 2022, the distribution effort has expanded to include key locations such as Santa Clara University and Mission College. This widespread approach aims to reach high-risk areas and make naloxone readily available to the public.
The Behavioral Health Services Department of the county, responsible for SCCOOPP, has also implemented naloxone distribution through healthcare facilities like Santa Clara Valley Healthcare’s Valley Health Center Primary Care Clinics and Addiction Medicine clinics. With over 25,000 kits distributed since 2017, the county demonstrates a commitment to addressing the opioid crisis with innovative and immediate action.
Mira Parwiz, a representative of the Behavioral Health Services Department, emphasized the bold tactics employed, stating, “This is a challenging effort, but addressing this crisis requires innovative thinking and immediate action. Giving our communities free access to naloxone can save lives.”
In addition to the introduction of naloxone vending machines, Santa Clara County has launched a comprehensive media campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and other opioids. The campaign, featuring ads in both English and Spanish, spans various platforms, including online, televised, and outdoor channels. The goal is to reach the public through diverse channels and educate them about the risks associated with opioids.
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Sherri Terao, Director of the Behavioral Health Services Department, highlighted the importance of disseminating information through various media channels, stating, “Getting this information out through so many different media channels meets the public where they are.”
Education is a key component of Santa Clara County’s approach, with free overdose response and naloxone training sessions being offered. Thousands have participated in these sessions, receiving both training and naloxone kits. The county encourages individuals from various professions and backgrounds to undergo training and carry naloxone, further empowering the community to respond effectively to opioid-related emergencies.
Santa Clara County’s proactive and multi-faceted approach to the opioid epidemic reflects a commitment to saving lives through prevention, education, and direct intervention. As the county continues its efforts, the hope is to create a safer and more informed community, equipped to address the challenges posed by opioid misuse and overdoses.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the new alternative to naloxone?
While Narcan is available over-the-counter, Opvee requires a prescription. Opvee has a longer duration in the body compared to Narcan. Although Opvee may be more potent, particularly for overdoses caused by long-acting opioids, it can also trigger more opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Is naloxone and Narcan the same thing?
Initially, the brand name for naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, was Narcan. Despite the availability of other formulations and brand names for naloxone, many individuals still refer to all of these products as Narcan. It is important to note that the correct generic name for this medication is naloxone.
Is Kloxxado available?
You can easily get your hands on Kloxxado® nasal spray by simply visiting your local pharmacy with a valid prescription from your doctor. This effective medication is readily available and can help alleviate your nasal symptoms. So, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about Kloxxado® and get the relief you need.
Who has the highest reported naloxone prescribing rates?
Psychiatrists, addiction medicine specialists, and pediatricians are the top three specialty groups that prescribe naloxone for every 100 high-dose opioid prescriptions. Among them, psychiatrists have the highest rate of naloxone prescriptions dispensed (12.9), followed by addiction medicine specialists (12.2) and pediatricians (10.4).