6 Controlled Substance Clinics Unexpectedly Close In New Hampshire, Vermont

CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services is warning communities of the potential for an increase in people suffering from drug withdrawal symptoms after the closure of a chain of facilities dispensing controlled substances.

The state said Wednesday the “unexpected closure” of New England Medicine and Counseling Associates had left many patients scrambling to find “alternate health care arrangements.” The company provided both medical marijuana certification as well as addiction medicine treatment.

It is unknown when the company closed its four locations in New Hampshire and two in Vermont. The company’s website is down, and a water shut-off notice was posted on the door of the Manchester location on South Willow Street. The company also had locations in Grantham, Newport, and Rochester, as well as Rutland and Colchester, VT.

“When patients who have been treated with medications like buprenorphine suddenly lose access to their medication, they are at increased risk of an opioid overdose and may have significant withdrawal symptoms if care is not reestablished quickly,” DHHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jonathan Ballard said. “The risks of using non-prescribed medications have never been higher due to the increasing presence of substances like fentanyl, and it is important for persons with an opioid use disorder to continue treatment.”

Emergency departments may see an increase in patients experiencing withdrawal symptoms, or who may be requesting buprenorphine, a medication for the treatment of opioid use disorder, until they can establish with another medical provider, the department said.

Patients of New England Medicine and Counseling were advised not to attempt to access “the illicit drug market” to obtain drugs. They are often not what they appear and may contain contaminants or other highly potent substances, such as fentanyl, that significantly increase the risk of overdose and death, the department said.

Families or residents concerned about the risk of overdose were advised to obtain naloxone at all New Hampshire Doorway locations or pharmacies.

Anyone needing assistance finding a new medical provider can call 211 in New Hampshire or VTHelplink (802-565-LINK) in Vermont.

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