Concerns Grow After A Sudden Increase In Overdoses In Scotland

Published: 14/03/25

Recent reports have highlighted an increase in sudden collapse after injecting or smoking heroin. This appears linked to a rapid onset into overdose and multiple repeat doses of naloxone being required to reverse overdose.

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The concern relates to clusters of drug related harm including both near-fatal overdoses and deaths.  As a result, Scottish Drugs Forum have launched refreshed information to raise awareness of the signs of overdose and how we can reduce risk.  

CLICK HERE to read the full alert.

Further Advice for Pharmacy Teams

• Make staff aware of the alert

• Ensure staff are familiar with the signs of overdose, and of the increased incidence currently

• Be able to signpost services of local treatment centres

• Ensure staff are aware of the Community Pharmacy Emergency Supply of Naloxone Service, and have undertaken the appropriate training. Details of the service circular can be found below.

• Ensure the Pharmacy has appropriate stock to provide the service

• Ensure stock is in-date, re-order if not and claim as per the service specification.

Further Resources:

Service Specification and Directions : Primary and Community Care Directorate

Training for Staff : Access from the following link: Community Pharmacy Emergency Naloxone Holding Service | Turas | Learn

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