NEWARK, NJ - A state Department of Human Services official will visit a Newark pharmacy tomorrow to encourage residents to participate in a free naloxone distribution day to help stop overdoses.

Human Services Commissioner Carole Johnson will be at the Walgreens on 61 Ferry St. at 11 a.m. The pharmacy is one of 174 that will be distributing naloxone - which blocks the effects of an opioid overdose - throughout New Jersey.

“With more than 3,000 overdose deaths in New Jersey last year, the Murphy Administration is taking action to empower residents to help prevent overdoses,” said Johnson in a statement.

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Three other pharmacies in Newark will be distributing the free opioid overdose antidote tomorrow: RiteAID at 104 12th Ave.; ShopRite on 206 Springfield Ave.; Walgreens at 361 Bergen St.

New Jerseyans will be able to anonymously obtain naloxone at no cost, without an individual prescription or an appointment. It will be distributed one dose per person on a first come, first serve basis. Information will also be given on addiction treatment and recovery.

The free distribution day is part of a pilot program approved by the New Jersey Board of Pharmacy.

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