A recent study, “Association of State Policies Allowing Pharmacists to Dispense Naloxone With Fatal Opioid Overdose Rates,” published in JAMA, explores the impact of harm reduction strategies, such as allowing pharmacists to dispense naloxone, on reducing opioid overdose deaths. While these measures are beneficial, they are not enough.

The findings emphasise that harm reduction is a step in the right direction but not a complete solution. A total ban on access to drugs, especially for children, is necessary to truly prevent overdoses. Prevention is the best solution—keeping drugs out of the hands of minors eliminates the root cause of many overdose issues.

For more insights on this critical issue, read the JAMA article.