VA Makes Lifesaving Naloxone Easier for Veterans to Access
By Camille Weston, Public Affairs Officer
When every second counts during an overdose emergency, having naloxone nearby can save a life.
Beginning July 1, Veterans receiving care through the G. V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center can obtain naloxone directly from VA pharmacy staff without a provider prescription. The new pharmacy standing order expands access to the medication and makes it easier for Veterans and their families to be prepared for an emergency.
Naloxone is a medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and restore normal breathing until emergency medical services arrive. It is safe, easy to use, and available as a nasal spray.
"Making naloxone more accessible is an important step in protecting the health and safety of the Veterans we serve," said Dr. Carey Thompson, Acting Chief of Pharmacy Service at the G. V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center. "This initiative removes barriers to access and ensures Veterans can obtain this lifesaving medication quickly and conveniently."
The initiative is part of VA's ongoing efforts to reduce overdose deaths through education, prevention, and access to lifesaving resources. While naloxone is commonly associated with opioid overdoses, health care providers encourage Veterans who take prescribed opioid medications for pain management to consider keeping naloxone on hand as an added safety measure.
Having naloxone available is similar to keeping a fire extinguisher or first aid kit at home. Most people hope they never need it, but having it readily available can make a critical difference during an emergency.
Veterans and caregivers can also learn to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose. Warning signs may include slow or shallow breathing, difficulty waking a person, blue or gray lips or fingernails, and unresponsiveness. Quick action, including calling 911 and administering naloxone, can help save a life.
Pharmacy staff are available to answer questions about naloxone and provide education on when and how to use it.
"Overdose prevention is a shared responsibility," said Rolanda Webb, Acting Medical Center Director. "By making naloxone easier to access, we are helping Veterans, families, and caregivers be prepared to respond during a medical emergency and potentially save a life."
Veterans interested in obtaining naloxone can speak with pharmacy staff during their next visit to the medical center or one of its community clinics.
For more information, contact the G. V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center Pharmacy Service at