AURORA, Colorado (KDVR) — The Food and Drug Administration has approved the first over-the-counter naloxone nasal spray, a drug that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save lives.
More than 100,000 people died from overdoses in the 12 months to October 2022, according to the FDA.
Dr. Katie Sprinkel, medical director of the emergency department at Aurora Medical Center, said she’s seen too many opioid overdoses.
“We see this on a daily basis, and it’s a serious problem,” Sprinkel said.
over-the-counter overdose countermeasures
Colorados already have access to naloxone, or brand-name Narcan, without a prescription.
However, this move by the FDA paved the way for naloxone to be sold directly to consumers in locations such as drug stores, convenience stores, grocery stores, gas stations and online.
“What’s changed about Coloradan is that Narcan is right next to ibuprofen and Tylenol. No need to talk to a pharmacist,” she said.
Patrick Sullivan said it was a positive step.
“Expanding access to it would be a plus,” he said.
Sullivan stopped using opioids 13 years ago and now works at a treatment center, Community Medical Services.
“I lost a lot of my friends to overdoses. It’s a preventable death,” he said.
How much does Naloxone cost?
He supports the move, but his only concern is the price.
“Over-the-counter drugs are generally not covered by insurance,” he said.
Sullivan said out-of-pocket costs for naloxone without insurance could be more than $100. He and his Sprinkel hope cost isn’t a barrier.
“We need to get Narkan into people’s hands at little or no cost,” Sprinkle said.
According to the FDA, manufacturers will determine pricing and when over-the-counter products will be available.
