Thanks to a multi-professional workgroup, Kanas House Bill 2217 concerning emergency opioid antagonists was signed by the Governor earlier this year. As a result, the Kansas State Board of Pharmacy (Board) has adopted K.A.R. 68-7-23 on a temporary basis (pending permanent adoption) to swiftly implement this public safety measure. Emergency opioid antagonists provide life-saving treatment to individuals experiencing intentional or accidental overdose by blocking or reversing the effects of opioid-based drugs, including extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, or loss of consciousness. Beginning July 1, 2017, pharmacists may dispense emergency opioid antagonists to patients, bystanders, first responder agencies, and school nurses without a prescription in accordance with the Statewide Protocol.

To participate in dispensing pursuant to the Statewide Protocol, each licensed pharmacist must:

1. Read all relevant laws and regulations (HB 2217 and KAR 68-7-23)
2. Download the Statewide Protocol from the Board website at www.pharmacy.ks.gov/naloxone
3. Review and Sign the Statewide Protocol on or after July 1, 2017
4. Send a copy of the last page of the Statewide Protocol to the Board (mail, fax, or email)

On July 1, 2017 the official Statewide Protocol will be published on the Board website. Unlike immunization protocols, Kansas Representative Dr. Greg Lakin will pre-sign as the practitioner/prescriber on behalf of the entire state. In the interim, a copy of the Statewide Protocol is available on the website. Dispensing under the Statewide Protocol is optional, and each pharmacist may use their professional judgment/discretion to dispense to an individual patient or bystander. HB 2217 and KAR 68-7-23 do not impact the availability of emergency opioid antagonists through traditional provider prescriptions.

The law also allows for a first responder, scientist or technician operating under a first responder agency, or a school nurse to possess, store, and administer emergency opioid antagonists as clinically indicated, provided they receive adequate training. In addition, any individual who, in good faith and with reasonable care, prescribes, dispenses, or administers an emergency opioid antagonist pursuant to the new law is not subject to civil liability, criminal prosecution, or any disciplinary action by a professional licensure entity.

The following types of resources and links concerning emergency opioid antagonists are available on the Board website at www.pharmacy.ks.gov/naloxone:

• Frequently Asked Questions – Dispensing and Administration
• Consumer Resources
• Narcan® School Program
• Instructions, Videos, and Apps
• First Responder Agency Guidelines and Training
• Pharmacist and Prescriber Education

Questions may be directed to the Board office via email – pharmacy@ks.gov.