Naloxone is a medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and can save lives if administered promptly. The app shows people where they can access free naloxone in Somerset and is being launched simultaneously with an online naloxone click-and-deliver service to support people who are unable to collect the medicine from their local area.
Both initiatives aim to reduce drug-related deaths by providing those at risk of an opioid overdose, their friends, and families with a free naloxone kit. Carry Naloxone began as a research project, funded by Somerset Council through new funding from the Department of Health and Social Care to support the implementation of the 2021 government drug strategy, From Harm to Hope, a key aim of which is to reduce number of drug related deaths. The aim is to encourage people who may experience or witness an opioid overdose to carry naloxone with them. A review of international studies found 57% of people offered naloxone accepted it, but the rate of people who carry the medication is lower at 20%.