Beginning January 29th, Take-Home Naloxone (THN) kits will be available in Melfort, Nipawin and Tisdale as part of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health’s THN program.
Individuals who misuse opioids, which include narcotics such as heroin, morphine, fentanyl and oxycodone, are at greater risk of opioid overdose. When administered properly, naloxone can reverse the effects of an opioid drug overdose by restoring normal breathing and consciousness. However, it is not meant to replace emergency care.
“Opioid addiction is not just an urban problem. Having the THN kits available in rural Saskatchewan will not only create awareness about this resource, it will also prevent potential tragedies by saving lives,” stated Kyle Stroeder, Manager of Mental Health & Addiction Services (Nipawin) for the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
With the expansion to Melfort, Nipawin and Tisdale, there are now 15 communities in Saskatchewan providing the THN training and kits, increasing access throughout the province. The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health is providing $50,000 this year to fund THN programs across the province. Naloxone is also already available and in use in Saskatchewan emergency departments and by paramedics responding to emergencies involving opioid overdoses.
The THN kits are available free of charge to individuals at risk of an opioid overdose. In addition to the kit, education and training on overdose prevention, recognition and response as well as how to use naloxone will also be provided. Training is available to family or friends who may witness an overdose.
Those interested in accessing a THN kit or training are encouraged to contact Mental Health & Addictions Central Intake in Melfort at 306-752-8767.
The availability of the THN kits does not replace the need to seek emergency care. If you witness or experience an overdose, dial 9-1-1 immediately.
