Being able to recognize the signs of an overdose quickly and having a naloxone kit can save a life. Naloxone can reverse an overdose while paramedics are on their way. Take-home naloxone kits do not replace the need for emergency care or minimize the importance of calling 911.
You can get a take-home naloxone kit for free from pharmacies (with an OHIP card) and other agencies in the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph area. When you get your kit you will also receive training on how to administer naloxone. Below is a list of places where you can get access to a free naloxone kit.
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health
- Provides free kits for anyone interested No appointment is required.
- Visit one of our offices in Guelph, Fergus or Orangeville, Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Fergus and Orangeville offices are closed from noon-1 p.m.)
- Community Health Van, run by Sanguen Health Centre, provides naloxone and other harm reduction services. Operates Wednesday and Thursday nights in the city of Guelph.
Pharmacies
Participating* Ontario pharmacies offer free injectable and nasal spray naloxone kits. You don’t need a prescription to get a kit. The pharmacist will train you on how to recognize an opioid overdose and explain how to use the naloxone kit.
*Not all pharmacies carry naloxone kits. Call ahead to check if your pharmacy has naloxone kits in stock. You can also ask the pharmacist any questions you might have.
To find a participating pharmacy:
- Check this list of pharmacies that have naloxone. This list is managed by the Ministry of Health. Should a pharmacy be missing from the list, please contact the Ministry.
- Once you have located a pharmacy, it is recommended to call ahead to make sure that they currently have naloxone available.
- Naloxone kits are free of charge.
Sanguen Health Centre
- Provides overdose prevention training and naloxone kits to anyone who is concerned about opioid overdose in our communities. To sign up for training, contact Sanguen with your name and contact information. To register, you can call the Sanguen office toll-free at 1-877-351-9857 or email info@sanguen.com.
The Consumption and Treatment Site/Guelph Community Health Centre (GCHC)
- 176 Wyndham Street North, Guelph. Open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Stay Sharp Site at GCHC
- 176 Wyndham Street North, Guelph. Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wellington-Guelph Drug Strategy
For opioid information and a list of pharmacies in the City of Guelph and Wellington County, visit Resources from Opioid Overdose Awareness and First Aid Training.