Laconia, NH Naloxone Event a Success

Partnership for Public Health hosted their first Naloxone Distribution event in Laconia, NH on January 11, 2016.  This event provided an opportunity for community members to learn about Naloxone and how to properly administer the drug in the event of an overdose.  It was well attended by over 50 community members and approximately 45 kits were distributed.  Resources were provided by, Insurance Marketplace PPHNH, Stand Up Laconia, LRGH, Horizons Counseling Center, Health First, F.A.S.T.E.R, Genesis Behavioral Health & Recovery Advocate Jane Sparks, with Naloxone training provided by Laconia Fire Department and LRGH.

Days after the event, Naloxone from one of the 45 kits distributed was successfully administered to an overdose victim in the community.  We consider this event a great success as it has already made a direct impact on the health and well being  of the community.  We are looking forward to hosting a second Naloxone Distribution event in Franklin in February.  For more information about the Partnership for Public Health, visit: www.pphnh.org. For questions about our region’s Naloxone events, contact: Lisa Leary at [email protected] or Kelley Gaspa at [email protected].

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Treatment options for opioid addiction

Where Can I Dispose of Medications Safely

The increased prescribing of prescription opioids is believed to be linked to the current surge in opioid addiction.  There are known signs and symptoms of addiction as well as treatment options available available.  Treatment options include inpatient or residential programs, medication assisted treatment, and detox variations. Those suffering from addiction a well as their family need to find the treatment and recovery system that works best for them.

For more information go to the U.S. News Health article titled Painkillers to Heroin: the Pros and Cons of Treatments for Opioid Addiction.

New Hampshire working through complexities of new naloxone distribution law

Naloxone is well known as a lifesaving drug for individuals suffering from an opioid overdose.

Naloxone is well known as a lifesaving drug for individuals suffering from an opioid overdose.

Advocates celebrated the recent naloxone (Narcan) distribution law passed in New Hampshire, but the implementation proves to be more complicated.  Naloxone is well known as a lifesaving drug for individuals suffering from an opioid overdose.  The state recently passed a law making it possible for family members of individuals with opioid addiction to receive a prescription for this drug and keep it on hand for an emergency.  Health care providers, insurance agencies, and pharmacies are necessary partners to ensure safety and access to naloxone.  There are educational trainings planned, but a clear understanding from many resources is required to make this new law transformative.

 

More information on naloxone distribution in New Hampshire and the current conversations surrounding use can be found here.

Alex: A Story of Recovery

Alex: A Story of Recovery

View the YouTube video produced by Check The Stats NH, a campaign by the Partnership for a Drug Free New Hampshire to increase awareness of drug and alcohol use by New Hampshires’ children.

Tips for Talking to your Child About Medications

Parent Talk Kit - Produced by the Medicine Abuse Project

Whether you’re a parent, relative or mentor to a child, there are going to be times when you need help discussing issues both big and small about drugs and alcohol. That’s why we think you will find this Parent Talk Kit helpful. With ideas on how to start talking, scripts on what to say, and tips for answering tough questions, this kit can help you keep the child in your life healthy and drug-free. Produced by the Partnership for Drug Free Kids.

Download PARENT TALK KIT: Tips for Talking and What to Say to Prevent Drug and Alcohol Abuse (pdf).

What Type of Medications Can I Drop Off

What type of medications to dispose of in Drop BoxesWhat medications can and can’t be disposed of in drop-boxes?

Here is a short list of items you can and cannot drop in our Medication Drop Boxes. Visit our Safe Disposal page for more information.

YOU CAN DROP:

  • Prescription and over the counter pills
  • Prescription patches
  • Prescription ointments
  • Over-the-counter pills
  • Vitamins
  • Pet medication pills

YOU CAN’T DROP:

  • Needles/sharps
  • Inhalers
  • Aerosols
  • Liquids

More information on Safe Disposal

Information for Caregivers and the Elderly

Information for caregivers and the elderlyMedications play an expanding role in health care as we grow older. People are more likely to develop one or more chronic illnesses with advancing age, and appropriate medication can help seniors live longer and more active lives. However, medication use in older adults is also more likely to be associated with safety concerns. In this handout produced by Pfizer, learn how to get the benefits of medicine, whether prescription or nonprescription, while minimizing and managing the risks.

Read the PDF handout: Medication Safety for the Elderly: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers – produced by Pfizer.