The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has updated its standing order to allow schools to maintain a supply of medications like naloxone and administer them in cases of opioid overdoses. This update, signed by IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra, expands on a 2015 authority aimed at increasing access to naloxone, an opioid antagonist that can reverse overdose effects.
The new order permits schools to obtain these medications without a prescription and authorizes trained school nurses or personnel to administer them when necessary. This follows Public Act 103-0348, effective January 1, 2024, which mandates public and private schools in Illinois to have an opioid antagonist available for emergencies. Illinois is among nine states with such a requirement.
Additionally, the revised order includes nalmefene as an approved opioid antagonist. Nalmefene received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in May 2023 for use in individuals aged 12 and older.
Dr. Vohra emphasized the importance of this measure: “Medications like naloxone save lives,” he stated. “This updated standing order will ensure Illinois schools have the authority to use this treatment to prevent tragedies.”
State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders supported the initiative: “Access to naloxone in schools will potentially save the life of a student experiencing an overdose.” He noted that while student overdoses are rare during school hours, having immediate access to medication can be crucial.
During the 2022-23 school year, there were ten reported instances where school staff administered an opioid antagonist due to suspected overdoses during regular hours.
Laura Garcia from the Illinois Department of Human Services highlighted the risk posed by fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills and expressed pride in collaborating with ISBE and IDPH on revising the standing order.
Both naloxone and nalmefene are considered safe for treating overdoses even if administered mistakenly when no overdose has occurred. Side effects are rare but may include symptoms similar to opioid withdrawal.
Under this standing order, valid through early February 2025, schools can acquire these medications without prescriptions, ensuring timely administration by trained personnel as outlined in the Illinois School Code.
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