Naloxone is a medication that can be used to reverse an opioid overdose. It is commonly used by first responders and medical professionals, but it can also be prescribed to laypeople who are at risk of an opioid overdose or who may witness an overdose. In Tennessee, dentists are now able to prescribe naloxone to their patients.
The ability of dentists to prescribe naloxone is an important step in addressing the opioid overdose crisis. Opioid overdoses are a leading cause of death in the United States, and Tennessee has one of the highest rates of opioid overdose deaths in the country. By allowing dentists to prescribe naloxone, more people will have access to this life-saving medication.
