Cherry Hill, New Jersey, is taking a significant step towards combating opioid overdoses by providing free access to naloxone — a medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdose. Under the state’s Naloxone365 initiative, individuals aged 14 and older can obtain naloxone at select New Jersey pharmacies, including various locations around Cherry Hill.
Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, is an essential medication that can swiftly counteract the life-threatening effects of opioid overdose. This initiative aims to make naloxone readily available to individuals who may be in a position to assist someone experiencing an overdose. Here’s all you need to know about this important program:
Accessible to All, No Prescription Needed
One of the key features of the Naloxone365 initiative is its accessibility. Individuals aged 14 and above can request or receive naloxone for free at participating pharmacies. No prescription is required, and individuals don’t need to disclose their name or provide a reason for obtaining the medication. Each visit to the pharmacy provides one two-dose naloxone nasal spray kit.
Removing Barriers, Saving Lives
Governor Phil Murphy introduced the Naloxone365 initiative in January, recognizing the urgency of addressing the opioid crisis. With 610 pharmacies already participating and 40,687 naloxone kits distributed through the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ StopOverdoses.nj.gov platform, the impact of the initiative is evident.
Sarah Adelman, the state’s human services commissioner, highlighted the significance of naloxone as a life-saving tool. “Naloxone is a safe, easy to use, fast-acting and effective nasal spray medication to reverse an overdose and save someone’s life,” Adelman stated. Making naloxone easily accessible for free and anonymously at pharmacies helps break down barriers to accessing the medication, reduces stigma, and encourages individuals to seek long-term recovery.
Cherry Hill Area Participating Pharmacies
Several pharmacies around the Cherry Hill area are part of this initiative, contributing to its success and impact. Here are some of the participating locations:
- Covered Bridge Pharmacy: 1501 Rte. 70 E, Cherry Hill
- Rite Aid: 823 Cooper Landing Rd., Cherry Hill
- Walgreens: 504 Kings Hwy N, Cherry Hill
- Rite Aid: 249 Cuthbert Blvd., Haddon Township
- ShopRite: 130 White Horse Pike, Lawnside
- MediLink RxCare: 709 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd., Voorhees
A Collective Effort for Change
The Naloxone365 initiative is a significant stride in the ongoing battle against opioid overdoses. This program complements Camden County’s other initiatives, including naloxone boxes within public spaces and various harm-reduction services. The goal is to make naloxone readily available, empowering communities to respond effectively to opioid-related emergencies.
For individuals seeking addiction treatment and support, resources like ReachNJ.gov and the ReachNJ addiction hotline (844-ReachNJ or 732-2465) provide immediate assistance from trained addiction counselors. Camden County residents can also connect with the Office of Mental Health and Addiction at 856-374-6361 for comprehensive support services.
As Cherry Hill and its surrounding communities come together to fight opioid overdoses, the Naloxone365 initiative stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that life-saving medication is within reach for all who need it.
