Naloxone distribution to injecting drug users (IDUs) for peer administration
is a suggested strategy to prevent fatal heroin overdose. The aim of this study was to
explore attitudes of IDUs to administration of naloxone to others after heroin overdose,
and preferences for method of administration. A sample of 99 IDUs (median age
35 years, 72% male) recruited from needle and syringe programs in Melbourne were
administered a questionnaire. Data collected included demographics, attitudes to
naloxone distribution, and preferences for method of administration. The primary
study outcomes were attitudes of IDUs to use of naloxone for peer administration
(categorized on a five-point scale ranging from “very good idea” to “very bad idea”)
and preferred mode of administration (intravenous, intramuscular, and intranasal). The
majority of the sample reported positive attitudes toward naloxone distribution (good
to very good idea: 89%) and 92% said they were willing to participate in a related
training program. Some participants raised concerns about peer administration
including the competence of IDUs to administer naloxone in an emergency, victim
response on wakening and legal implications. Most (74%) preferred intranasal
administration in comparison to other administration methods (21%). There was no
association with age, sex, or heroin practice. There appears to be strong support among
Australian IDU for naloxone distribution to peers. Intranasal spray is the preferred
route of administration.