New pilot service launched to reduce drug-related deaths

Local pharmacies are working with Public Health Devon to pilot a new service aiming to reduce the number of drug-related deaths in the county.

The latest figures show that there were 185 drug-related deaths in Devon from 2020-2022.

We already fund a range of initiatives that help prevent harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs.

But now we’re also looking to work with a number of high street pharmacies in specific locations to help prevent deaths caused by overdose of illegal opiates, such as heroin.

The new pilot will begin with the following pharmacies:
• Exeter Community Pharmacy, St.Sidwell Street, Exeter, EX4 6NS
• ASDA, Highweek Street, Newton Abbot, TQ12 ITG
• Well Pharmacy Teignmouth, 9 Regent Street, TQ14 8SJ
• Day Lewis, Pines Pharmacy, 39 Pines Road, Exmouth, EX8 5NH

Pharmacy staff will be trained in recognising the symptoms of opioid overdose, how to respond appropriately, and how to administer the drug Naloxone.

Naloxone is a medication that can be administered by nasal spray or injection and helps to reverse the effects of an opiate overdose.

It will be offered to anyone over 18 years old who is currently using illegal opiates, or an opioid substitute, or who has previously used opiate drugs.

The drug will also be available to family members, friends, carers and others who live with, or are closely associated with people who use, or have used, opioids.

Pharmacy staff will also provide support, advice and information, including signposting or referral to other health and social services.

Public Health Devon will monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the service before deciding whether to extend it to other areas of the county.

Naloxone can also be accessed from Together Drug and Alcohol treatment services (provided by Waythrough):

• Magdalene House, Grendon Rd, Exeter EX1 2NJ
• Templer House, Scott Close, Newton Abbot TQ12 1GJ