Naloxone easier to obtain after provincial bylaw change

Naloxone,used to reverse the effects of anopioidoverdose, will be easier for Saskatchewan people to access after a new provincial bylaw change.

Previously inSaskatchewan,naloxonewas a Schedule II drug, meaning it was only available from a pharmacist. It had to be kept behind the counter and pharmacists had to train people on how to administer it.

By unschedulingthe drug, the province has made it easier for individuals and community-based organizations to get it, according to a news release.

Saskatchewan is the third province to unschedulenaloxone, behind Alberta and British Columbia. Naloxone was previously a Schedule II drug, which meantit was only available from a pharmacist.

The Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals changed a bylaw to make the substance more accessible.

Even after naloxone is administered, further medical treatment is needed.People are asked to call 911 if they suspect someone is overdosing.