Background and purpose: Naloxone distribution is an increasing service provided by pharmacists as more states enact laws enabling pharmacists to dispense naloxone without a prescription or per protocol to individuals in the wake of an opioid overdose epidemic. Education and training programs are necessary to ensure students and practicing pharmacists are able to effectively provide the service.
Educational activity and setting: All first, second, and third year students in the doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) program at The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy (OSUCOP) participated in a pilot naloxone and harm reduction educational program. The program consisted of a three-part recorded lecture and a hands-on interactive workshop. Fourth-year students had the opportunity to participate. Students completed a ten-question assessment based on the content of the recorded lecture. Following the workshop, self-reflection and feedback were solicited.
Findings: Qualitative data indicated students felt the naloxone educational program was beneficial. Inclusion of harm reduction strategies, a mock counseling session, hands-on practice with naloxone delivery devices, and patient case discussions were valued.
Discussion and summary: OSUCOP was able to develop and deliver a naloxone and harm reduction educational program across all four years of the PharmD curriculum within one year of passage of laws increasing pharmacist dispensing of naloxone.
Keywords: Education; Harm reduction; Naloxone; Pharmacy curriculum; Student pharmacists.
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