Resources to Prevent Overdose and Protect Lives

When it comes to substance use, one truth remains clear: simply telling people to “just stop” doesn’t work. People don’t stop using drugs because we tell them to. But we can give them access to tools, education, and support that may save their lives.

That’s the heart of harm reduction—meeting people where they are with compassion, resources, and practical support that helps prevent overdose and keeps our community safer.

At Cuyuna Regional Medical Center, this philosophy comes to life through several free, no-questions-asked services available at Cuyuna Lakes Pharmacy on the Crosby campus. These initiatives help reduce the risks of drug use and connect people to care whenever they’re ready.

“As healthcare providers, it’s important that we meet people where they are in their recovery journey,” said Elise Durgin, PharmD, BCPS. “These methods help prevent addiction by keeping unused opioid items out of people’s cabinets and keeping people safe while they’re actively experiencing addiction.”

Through compassionate care and practical support, CRMC is working to protect individual lives and strengthen the health and safety of our entire community.

Naloxone Access Point Program

CRMC hosts the only Naloxone Access Point in the Cuyuna Lakes area—the nearest other site is in Brainerd. A Naloxone Access Point is a public location where anyone can get naloxone, the lifesaving medication that reverses opioid overdoses.

Available supplies include:

• Intramuscular naloxone kits, used to reverse opioid overdoses
• Fentanyl test strips, which help detect contamination before use

Nasal Naloxone

For those who prefer nasal naloxone, CRMC pharmacists can dispense it directly under an established protocol—no physician’s order required. Without this program, nasal naloxone must be purchased over the counter at the individual’s expense.

Safe Syringes

To help reduce the transmission of HIV and Hepatitis C, CRMC participates in Minnesota’s Pharmacy Syringe Access Initiative, which allows pharmacies to sell clean needles without a prescription. This initiative promotes safer practices and supports public health by minimizing the spread of infectious diseases.

Deterra Drug Disposal Pouches

Cuyuna Lakes Pharmacy offers an effective, environmentally friendly way to dispose of unused medications. Simply add warm water to the Deterra pouch to permanently deactivate prescription, over-the-counter, or even illicit drugs—including opioids and fentanyl—helping protect lives and prevent misuse.

Prescription Mail-Back Envelopes

Available free of charge at the pharmacy, these pre-addressed envelopes allow individuals to safely mail back unused medications. This convenient option helps ensure unused prescriptions are properly disposed of rather than left sitting in medicine cabinets.

Medication Drop Box

For those who prefer in-person disposal, a secure medication drop box is available at Crosby City Hall during regular business hours. The box is monitored by city staff to ensure proper handling and safety.

No Judgement. Just Support.

CRMC’s harm reduction initiatives are open to everyone: no questions asked, no judgment given. If you or someone you know could benefit from these free resources, stop by Cuyuna Lakes Pharmacy on the hospital campus to learn more. Together, we can keep our community safer and stronger.