August 30, 2023 – Narcan, the drug used to treat opioid overdoses, will likely be sold and not using a prescription at three pharmacy chains starting next month, the businesses said.
Walgreens, CVS and Rite Aid will sell Narcan for $44.99, company spokespeople said USA todayThe nasal spray brand of the drug naloxone will likely be available in shops and online.
Earlier this yr, the FDA approved the over-the-counter sale of the nasal spray to combat opioid overdoses, including overdoses of heroin, prescription opioid drugs and fentanyl.
“We are committed to educating all Americans and making it easier for them to have this life-saving medicine on hand in their first aid kit in case of an emergency,” said Dr. Kevin Ban, Walgreens executive vice chairman and chief medical officer, in a press release.
More than 67,000 preventable deaths from fentanyl occurred in 2021, says the National Security Council – a rise of 21% over the previous yr.
The spray must be used as soon as someone shows signs of an opioid overdose. The medication isn't an alternative to emergency medical care and anyone administering it should call 911 first.
“This community-driven initiative with Walgreens will hopefully help everyone feel comfortable carrying and using naloxone nasal spray,” said Theo Krzywicki, CEO and founding father of End Overdose, a nonprofit that partners with Walgreens. “Just like you carry other first aid supplies, this can and should be something that is accessible to everyone.”