WA Department of Health to Provide Free Naloxone to Public High Schools

The Washington Department of Health is initiating a new initiative to provide public high schools with the life-saving opioid reversal drug naloxone. Despite the statewide impact of the opioid crisis, statistics reveal a nearly threefold increase in opioid overdose deaths among 14-to-18-year-olds from 2016 to 2022.

Expressing particular concern for this high school age group, DOH program manager Emalie Huriaux stated, "That sort of high school age group is a particular concern." While existing state law mandates that school districts with 2,000 or more students must maintain at least two doses of opioid reversal medication in each high school, the cost of around $45 per box can pose a financial challenge.

Huriaux acknowledged variations in high schools' ability to obtain naloxone, mentioning, "We know some high schools have been successful getting donated naloxone through a manufacturer donation program." To address this disparity, the Washington Department of Health is now providing two kits of naloxone in nasal spray form to all public high schools. Schools can request these kits through their Educational Service District, with the ESDs managing the orders and coordinating fulfillment.

While teens are not prohibited by state law from carrying naloxone, Huriaux emphasized the importance of discussing this with parents. Some school districts may have restrictions on carrying medications, whether over-the-counter or prescription, with the requirement that these be managed by the school nurse.

Huriaux clarified that there is no legal hindrance for teens to purchase naloxone. While certain pharmacies may impose restrictions, the state standing order, which operates as a prescription for those at risk of overdose, has no age limitations. The CDC and FDA recommendations similarly lack age restrictions.

Naloxone is accessible to anyone in Washington state through a pharmacy using the statewide standing order or online for free. Additionally, Yakima County residents can obtain naloxone at no cost from vending machines established by the Yakima Health District at two locations: the OIC of Washington building in Yakima and Yakamart in Toppenish.

Source: Apple Valley News Now