The Guelph Public Library now offers a treatment that has the potential to save lives.
Nasal spray Naloxone kits are now available at the main branch on Norfolk Street. Anyone looking for a kit can pick one up at the basement level Info B Desk.
Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, allowing others enough time to seek medical attention.
Naloxone works by ‘kicking’ the opioid off the receptors in the brain and, instead, binds itself to those receptors. The medication can begin to take effect within two minutes of use.
Naloxone only works if someone has taken opioids and, according to Health Canada, cannot create a dependence.
Staff at the library can provide a kit to anyone who asks for one and training is also available.
“Harm reduction supports must be a collaborative community effort and the library recognizes the role we play in understanding the complexity of the opioid crisis in Guelph,” Michelle Campbell, Deputy CEO at the Guelph Public Library, said in a news release. “With uncertainty around Guelph’s Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS) site, providing additional supports like Naloxone kits will help prevent overdoses at a critical point for our community.”
As part of the effort, an outdoor community sharps drop box will also be installed within the library parking lot in April.
