FDA Approves Over The Counter Sale Of Opioid Reversal Drug Narcan

Narcan, the prescription nasal spray that reverses opioid overdoses can now be sold over the counter (OTC), said the FDA on Wednesday, reported the NY Times, thereby authorizing a move that has been long-sought by public health officials, treatment experts, families and individuals close to the ongoing opioid crisis.

By late this summer, OTC Narcan could be available in big-box chain stores, vending machines, supermarkets, convenience stores, gas stations and even online.

“Today’s approval of OTC naloxone nasal spray will help improve access to naloxone, increase the number of locations where it’s available and help reduce opioid overdose deaths throughout the country," said FDA commissioner Dr. Robert M. Califf who called the OTC authorization a dire public health need. "We encourage the manufacturer to make accessibility to the product a priority by making it available as soon as possible and at an affordable price.”

The company that makes Narcan, Emergent BioSolutions EBS has not disclosed how much OTC Narcan will cost. 

“We are dedicated to improving public health and assisting those working hard to end the opioid crisis — so now with leaders across government, retail and advocacy groups, we must work together to continue increasing access and availability, as well as educate the public on the risks of opioid overdoses and the value of being prepared with Narcan to help save a life,” said Robert G. Kramer, CEO of Emergent BioSolutions.