Pharmacies in Nova Scotia will soon give out a potentially life-saving medication used in opioid overdoses for free and without a prescription as the province ramps up its fight against a drug epidemic spreading across Canada.
Starting Sept. 1, anyone seeking a kit of injectable naloxone will be able to get one at no cost simply by stopping by their local pharmacy — no ID needed. The kits normally cost between $10 and $25.
"By putting naloxone in pharmacies, we want to make it accessible to everyone in a convenient and trusted location, one that doesn't carry a stigma if you're to go in to visit," Health Minister Randy Delorey said Wednesday as he announced the $500,000 program.
"I would urge people in the province with family members, friends and other loved ones who are using opioids to visit the local pharmacy this fall and ask for a kit."
