The ODPRN has conducted multiple studies that have both informed and evaluated the impact of drug policies in Ontario, and more broadly across Canada. This research includes a wide breadth of work ranging from large drug class reviews to specific rapid response projects resulting from decision makers’ pressing initiatives.
New Research
Geographic variation in the provision of naloxone by pharmacies in Ontario
Opioid-related overdoses and deaths have become a public health crisis across North America, with approximately 72,600 opioid-related deaths occurring in Canada and the United States in 2018 alone. Importantly, the majority of opioid-related deaths are unintentional and preventable with the time administration of naloxone, an opioid antagonist that quickly and effectively reserves the effects of an opioid overdose.
In June 2016, the Ontario Government introduced the Ontario Naloxone Program for Pharmacies (ONPP), authorizing community pharmacies across the province to provide naloxone kits to all Ontario residents free of charge.
The ONPP was modified in March 2018 to: 1) allow pharmacies to distribute intranasal naloxone, and 2) remove the requirement for individuals to present a valid government health card in order to receive a naloxone kit.
This study investigates regional variation in the distribution of naloxone through the ONPP and identifies individual- and public health unit-level determinants of variation.
