announces that draft proposed regulations to implement an Overdose Response Program (ORP)
are posted for public comment. These regulations, authorized under legislation passed in May
2013, allow trained individuals to administer naloxone to reverse opioid-related overdose when
medical services are not immediately available.
The alarming rise in overdose deaths from heroin and prescription opioids (e.g. pain medications
like oxycodone) has created a public health crisis in Maryland. Increasing the availability of
naloxone to reverse the effects of these types of overdoses is one important tool in the State’s
targeted overdose prevention efforts.
Naloxone (Narcan®) is an antidote that restores breathing and consciousness to an individual
experiencing opioid-related overdose, with little or no adverse side effects. The medication can
be safely injected intramuscularly or administered intranasally by a trained layperson.
The draft proposed regulations set forth the means by which an entity such as a health care
provider, community organization or local health department may apply to DHMH for authorization
to conduct an educational training program and issue certificates to trained individuals. Those
who successfully complete training would be issued certificates allowing them to obtain and fill
prescriptions for naloxone, legally possess the naloxone and, if necessary, administer it as
instructed.
The draft proposed regulations are available for review at http://dhmh.maryland.gov/docs/SB610%20proposed%20naloxone%20regs%20_FINAL%20DRAFT_092013.pdf .
The public is invited to email comments to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by Friday,
October 11, 2013.
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