Vending

Littleton, New Hampshire offers 24/7 access to naloxone with vending machine

Photo: Hanson - stock.adobe.com

April 12, 2024

In an effort to expand access to the life-saving drug naloxone, a vending machine dispensing the medication is now available 24/7 in Littleton, New Hampshire, according to a NHPR report.

The machine, located outside the Mt. Eustis Commons building on Cottage Street, provides anonymous access to naloxone, commonly sold under the brand name Narcan. Naloxone can reverse opioid overdoses and is a crucial tool in combating the ongoing substance use crisis.

"One life lost is just too many," Jennifer Goulet of the North Country Health Consortium, the public health organization responsible for installing the machine, told the news outlet. "There are still barriers to accessing naloxone, and this vending machine removes one of those barriers."

Naloxone is increasingly carried by first responders and is available through "NaloxBoxes" in some businesses and public settings. However, Goulet acknowledges the stigma associated with seeking help for substance use.

"The vending machine allows people to access naloxone without having to interact with anyone," she explained. "This can be especially helpful for those who fear judgment."

The free vending machine provides up to three boxes, containing a total of six doses, of naloxone. It is believed to be the first of its kind in the North Country region, possibly even the entire state.

Savanah Miller, recovery support manager for the North Country Health Consortium, highlighted the ongoing need for resources in Littleton.

"Our community has been heavily impacted by substance use," Miller told the news outlet. "While we have resources available for those in recovery, this vending machine represents another step towards combating this issue and saving lives."

The addition of the naloxone vending machine complements existing efforts in Littleton, such as encouraging businesses to carry the medication and equipping police officers with naloxone for use during patrols.