In an ongoing effort to increase access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services for people with substance use disorder, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has purchased and distributed record amounts of the opioid reversal drug naloxone to New Hampshire communities.

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, lessen the impact of an overdose, and reduce the stigma often associated with opioid overdose.

“The State of New Hampshire first began making naloxone kits to residents across the state in 2016,” said Governor Chris Sununu. “This year, we became the first state in the country to launch statewide placement of NaloxBoxes – a tool proven to save lives in overdose situations. New Hampshire is leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to combat the nationwide substance misuse epidemic.”

“During a medical emergency, ensuring public access to life-saving tools such as naloxone can mean the difference between life and death,” said DHHS Chief Medical Officer Jonathan Ballard. “Our goal is to make naloxone widely accessible in every corner of the state, and we value our partnership with the New Hampshire Doorway system that helps move it forward through a coordinated and collaborative effort.”

Many districts incorporate access to naloxone into their school emergency preparedness and response plans. In addition, more than 100 naloxone kits have been delivered to schools, and of a total of 192 Naloxboxes installed, 51 (27%) are located in schools. Schools, businesses, and community organizations that wish to obtain naloxone can make a request through their local Doorway.

From September 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023, New Hampshire has purchased more than 58,000 naloxone kits for distribution statewide. Of that total, 11,000 are included in overdose prevention kits that contain other supplies such as gloves, fentanyl test strips and CPR masks. Earlier this spring, New Hampshire became the first state in the nation to launch statewide placement of NaloxBoxes in all ten counties.