OX Program Getting Off the Ground

The OX (Opiate Exchange) program requires enrollment by the individual, the form for which can be found online here or completed at Aniz Inc. Individuals may choose to remain anonymous, though demographic information will be collected to further understand the needs of the populations Aniz serves. The option of HIV or Hepatitis C screenings are available during the registration process. According to your need, you may receive cottons, alcohol pads, tourniquets, .5 mL syringes, 28 gauge syringes, and rescue kits, which include intramuscular injectable naloxone. You may also receive a safer sex kits including water-based lubricant and a variety of condoms.

About our Opiate (OX) Program

On site, individuals obtain rescue kits from Aniz, Inc., which include a drug called naloxone, an antidote to opioid overdose. Opioids include heroin, morphine, codeine, oxycodone, methadone, and Vicodin. Naloxone blocks opioids from the brain’s opiate receptors within about five minutes, and can be used to reverse slow or stopped breathing and unresponsiveness in someone who is overdosing. The naloxone provided by Aniz Inc. is administered by intramuscular (IM) injection into the upper arm, thigh, or buttocks. It will work for about thirty minutes before overdose symptoms can reoccur, thus only widens the window of time one has to call 911 to prevent brain damage and death.

All referrals to Aniz are anonymous, so if you or someone you know needs access to clean injection kits, there is no need to fear legal repercussion. You can also prepare yourself by obtaining and knowing how to use naloxone. More information about how to administer an IM injection can be found here, including directions on how to fill syringes and where injections can be delivered. If you are present during an overdose, call 911 immediately. If you stay with the person who is overdosing until emergency services arrive, you cannot be arrested, charged, or prosecuted for drug paraphernalia, possession of small amounts of controlled substances, or underage purchase and possession of alcohol. You will also receive immunity from violation of protection or restraining orders, or conditional of pretrial release, probation, or parole.

Important Dates

5:30-7:00 Every fourth Monday: Holistic Harm Reduction Support Group

5:30-7:00 Every first and third Monday: Open Empowerment Group

By Appointment: Individual Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Counseling (404-521-2410)

Scheduling

9:30-4:30 Monday-Thursday

Rescue kits and OX Bags can be obtained on site

Aniz Inc. is located at 236 Forsyth St, SW, Suite 300

Contact

Office Staff: 404-521-2410

Maxine Wright (Intervention and Outreach) mwright@aniz.org

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