Overdose medication at Wonthaggi Hospital
Wonthaggi Hospital was one of four new hospitals to receive a naloxone dispensing machine, as part of a government program to make it easier to access lifesaving overdose medication for free.
Wonthaggi Hospital was one of four new hospitals to receive a naloxone dispensing machine, as part of a government program to make it easier to access lifesaving overdose medication for free.
This takes the number of machines to 17 across the state.
The machines operated 24/7, dispensing the free, lifesaving overdose medication at the push of a button.
The spray can be administered by anyone - simply by following the instructions included in the packaging.
Naloxone is a safe, lifesaving medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose, including from heroin, prescription opioids and synthetic opioids.
Like CPR, EpiPens, or asthma inhalers, naloxone is a first aid tool used in emergencies.
By making it more accessible, the government said more people can respond quickly in an overdose situation, which can save lives.
"Free naloxone, available around the clock, means anyone can step in during an overdose and buy precious time until emergency help arrives," said Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt.
