Southwestern Pennsylvania Counties Expand Access to Naloxone to Combat Opioid Overdoses

In the midst of the opioid epidemic, southwestern Pennsylvania is seeing a growing effort to make naloxone, an anti-overdose drug, widely available in public spaces. As Allegheny County continues to grapple with the opioid crisis, rural counties like Lawrence, Butler, Armstrong, Indiana, and Clarion are stepping up to ensure the lifesaving medication is accessible in schools, hospitals, libraries, and other high-traffic areas.

“It’s very accessible,” said Rebecca Abramson, executive director of the Lawrence County Drug and Alcohol Commission, highlighting the region’s commitment to providing naloxone at no cost to those in need.

A Significant Decrease in Overdose Deaths

Lawrence County, which saw 32 drug overdose deaths in 2024, has made notable strides in combating the epidemic. While overdose fatalities had been higher in previous years—85 in 2022 and 57 in 2021—Abramson attributes the decline in deaths to the widespread availability of naloxone.

In addition to naloxone distribution through local drug and alcohol commissions, billboards throughout Lawrence County provide crucial information to the public, encouraging residents to request naloxone by mail for free. These public outreach efforts have undoubtedly contributed to the region’s success in reducing overdose deaths.

The Impact of NaloxBoxes and Vending Machines

Both Lawrence and Butler counties have implemented “NaloxBoxes,” which are wall-mounted cabinets stocked with naloxone doses. These boxes are strategically placed in places like schools, hospitals, and libraries to ensure access to the medication when it is needed most. Over the past seven years, the Gaiser Center in Butler has witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of naloxone kits distributed throughout the county.

“We’ve seen a huge improvement in naloxone access,” said Thomas Brophy, medical director at the Gaiser Center. “It’s honestly impressive to see how much Butler County has done to get it out there for the community.”

Beyond NaloxBoxes, the Armstrong-Indiana-Clarion Drug and Alcohol Commission, led by Mike Krafick, has taken a further innovative approach by introducing naloxone vending machines. These free-standing machines, located both inside and outside various public spaces, offer naloxone anonymously and without cost, allowing individuals to take the medication without fear of judgment.

“We’ve been restocking more frequently than expected,” said Krafick, noting that these machines are particularly popular outside hospitals, where people might be more willing to take advantage of the privacy they offer.

Since their installation, these naloxone vending machines have played a crucial role in improving access to the life-saving drug. With 16 vending machines currently in operation across the region, Krafick remains optimistic that this approach is making a meaningful difference in the fight against opioid overdose.

Wider Accessibility Through Vending Machines and Mail Distribution

While Allegheny County also introduced naloxone vending machines last summer, the initial rollout encountered technical difficulties, and two of the three machines quickly broke down. However, Allegheny County continues to offer naloxone through other means, including 10 “newspaper-style dispensers,” as well as by mail for free to residents in need.

Although naloxone is available over-the-counter at pharmacies across Pennsylvania, its cost can be prohibitive, reaching up to $45 per dose. For many people, the free distribution of naloxone in public spaces is a vital resource, ensuring that price does not stand in the way of saving lives.

Harm Reduction Measures and Legal Changes

In addition to naloxone, the Armstrong-Indiana-Clarion region has taken advantage of Pennsylvania’s 2022 legislation decriminalizing fentanyl test strips. These strips, now legally available, allow individuals to test drugs for the presence of fentanyl, a potent and often lethal opioid that is frequently mixed with other substances. Krafick believes that these test strips, which are now widely available in the three counties, have become an essential tool in harm reduction practices.

A Growing Commitment to Fighting the Opioid Crisis

As the opioid crisis continues to affect communities throughout Pennsylvania, rural counties in the southwestern part of the state are demonstrating a strong commitment to fighting overdose deaths. By expanding naloxone access, implementing vending machines, and embracing harm reduction strategies, counties like Lawrence, Butler, Armstrong, Indiana, and Clarion are playing a crucial role in turning the tide on opioid overdoses.

“We can always do better, and we need to keep moving in the same direction,” said Brophy, reflecting on the ongoing efforts to address the opioid epidemic. “But I’m hopeful and confident in what these counties have done so far.”

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