The NJ Board of Medical Examiners has issued a certificate of waiver allowing physicians and other prescribers to write a prescription for the opioid antidote naloxone (Narcan ®) in the name of the person receiving the prescription, rather than the end user who will be administered the agent. In addition, the BME has waived the requirements for a physical examination before or follow up appointment after the issuance of the prescription for the antidote.
For Medical Practitioners: Prescribing Naloxone (Narcan ®)
Prescribing Naloxone (Narcan ®)
When prescribing naloxone (Narcan ®) in accordance with the Opioid Antidote and Overdose Prevention Act, the prescriber should ensure that those receiving naloxone understand the following:
- Signs of an opioid overdose
- Importance of calling 911
- Steps in caring for the overdose victim
Individuals who view the NJ DHS/DMHAS Overdose Responder Training Webinar have met the requirements for training needed for a naloxone (Narcan ®) prescription.
Prescription Information
The Department of Health recommends prescribing naloxone (Narcan ®) for intranasal use, as it is safer (e.g., no risk of needle stick) and easier to use than a syringe, while being about equally effective in cases of overdose.
Prescriptions of naloxone (Narcan ®) can read as follows:
Note that while the intranasal applicator (Luer Lock) is not generally available in pharmacies, it can be ordered by pharmacists and is also available online without the need for a prescription.
