Vending machines stocked with free medicines used to reverse opioid overdoses are now available at Witham Health Services in Zionsville.

The Lebanon-based hospital said the naloxone vending machine was one of 19 vending machines installed statewide, at its Zionsville location, 6085 Heartland Dr.

Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, is administered when a person is showing signs of an opioid overdose to block the fatal effects of an overdose.

“There is no single solution to end this epidemic that has claimed the lives of thousands of Hoosiers,” said Gov. Eric Holcomb. “But we can take thoughtful steps to shake the scourge of addiction out of our communities. Naloxone vending machines are a practical tool to prevent overdoses and save lives. “

Vending machines holding up to 300 naloxone kits are manufactured by Shaffer Distribution Co. and are programmed to dispense free naloxone kits. Each kit contains a single dose of naloxone, instructions for use, and a referral for treatment of substance use disorders.

In Indiana, preliminary data released in May by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a 21% increase in fatal overdoses in the 12 months from December 2020 to December 2021.

Witham Health Services President and CEO Kelly Braverman said: “Witham is proud to receive one of the first naloxone vending machines in the state and applauds Governor Holcomb for his commitment to addressing the drug epidemic. , Boone County residents ranked mental health and substance abuse among their top 1 and 2 concerns.”

Overdose Lifeline, an Indiana nonprofit organization that helps people affected by substance abuse disorders, used $72,600 in federal grants provided through the Mental Health and Addiction Division of the Indiana Department of Family and Social Services. I am buying a vending machine.

“Given the lingering impact of COVID-19 and increased fentanyl supplies in 92 counties, we must continue to ensure broad access to naloxone,” said Drug Prevention, Indiana. said Douglas Huntsinger, Executive Director, Therapeutic and Enforcement. “One more life is lost to a drug overdose. Naloxone offers people with substance use disorders the opportunity to put them on a path to long-term recovery.”

Braverman also said vending machines would be an asset to hospital services.

“This is a major mental health extension of the emergency department program that Witham has in place, where patients who come to the emergency department with a mental health crisis will be treated by an integrated wellness mental health professional. You get immediate treatment and the opportunity to get support 24 hours a day,” said Braverman.