AN ACT drug overdose program has resulted in over 20 successful drug overdose reversals, a review has found. 

The local program uses the drug naloxone to prevent overdose deaths from opioids such as heroin and counteracts the potentially fatal effects on the central nervous and respiratory systems.

Chief Minister and Minister for Health Katy Gallagher said since the launch of the program in 2012, there have been 23 successful overdose reversals and 160 people have completed overdose management training delivered by peer based drug user organisation, the Canberra Alliance For Harm Minimisation & Advocacy.

“This program is about saving lives and the 23 successful overdose reversals show that this program is achieving the desired results,” Ms Gallagher said.

“As a result of this training, 23 people are alive today who may not have been without this program.

“Its also great to see similar programs being rolled out in New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria.”