The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announces statewide availability of the new overdose reversal medication nalmefene. Like naloxone, nalmefene is an opioid reversal medication that can be used to prevent opioid overdose deaths and reverse the effects of an overdose. DHHS has issued a standing order to all pharmacies across the state to dispense nalmefene to individuals at risk of experiencing an opioid overdose, and to their family members, friends, or other people who may be able to assist at-risk individuals.
“Yet again, New Hampshire is increasing access to every resource possible in our continued work to combat substance use disorder and save lives,” said Governor Chris Sununu. “With this tool, we increase the opportunity to partner Granite Staters in need with the variety of recovery resources available and put them on a path to a brighter future.”
“Nalmefene is emerging as one more tool at our disposal as we work to prevent opioid overdose deaths,” said DHHS Chief Medical Officer Jonathan Ballard. “As we broaden the availability of nalmefene and other opioid antagonist agents such as naloxone, people will have increased access to life-saving measures during an emergency.”
Individuals who wish to have nalmefene on hand can obtain it at their local pharmacy. Nalmefene is available at no cost to New Hampshire Medicaid beneficiaries. Nalmefene provides fast onset and long-duration reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression, which makes it well-suited for reversing highly potent opioids such as fentanyl.
In 2019, New Hampshire launched The Doorways, New Hampshire’s hub and spoke system, creating single points of entry in regions across the state for people seeking help with substance use disorder. The Doorways supports people in need of substance misuse services by connecting them with screening, treatment, prevention, and peer recovery support services to assist in their long-term recovery. To find a local Doorway, call 211 or visit www.thedoorway.nh.gov.
In addition to nalmefene, New Hampshire also has a standing order for the opioid reversal medication naloxone. Over the past year, the State has invested close to $3 million in State Opioid Response funds to increase public access to naloxone to prevent opioid overdose deaths. In 2023, New Hampshire became the first state in the nation to launch the statewide placement of NaloxBoxes.
To read the orders, please visit www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/health-care/substance-misuse-treatment-services.