Narcan 101: What Is It and How Does It Work?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved the nonprescription use of Narcan nasal spray to address the opioid overdose epidemic in the United States. Narcan is a medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose by restoring proper breathing and reversing sedation.
Narcan is a brand name for naloxone, which works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as opioids, reversing their effects. Narcan is available as an injection or nasal spray, with the nasal spray being easier to administer to someone who may be experiencing an overdose. The nasal spray delivers a dose of naloxone directly into the nose, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream quickly.
Over-The-Counter Approval Paves the Way for More Accessible Naloxone
According to recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been over 500,000 opioid overdose deaths since 1999. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this issue, with more than 101,750 reported fatal overdoses occurring in just a 12-month period ending in October 2022.
To combat this public health crisis, the FDA has approved Narcan nasal spray for nonprescription over-the-counter use. This change will allow consumers to purchase Narcan directly from drug stores, convenience stores, grocery stores, gas stations, and online without a prescription.
This decision complements Michigan’s initiative in 2017’s standing order that made Narcan available without a prescription. Communities and health organizations have distributed Narcan for free ever since then under Michigan’s guidance.
Emergent BioSolutions, who manufactures Narcan, expects it will be available on self-serve shelves before the end of summer. However, its accessibility and pricing will depend on the manufacturer.
The Impact of Over-The-Counter Narcan
The FDA hopes that this new OTC availability of Narcan nasal spray will help fight against the opioid overdose epidemic. Making naloxone more accessible will prevent overdoses and save lives. Distributing Narcan more effectively could also ensure equitable access to life-saving essential healthcare.
The move is a strong step forward in advancing HHS’s Overdose Prevention Strategy and the BidenHarris Administration’s National Drug Control Strategy. The administration has already taken unprecedented steps in expanding access to naloxone and other harm reduction interventions.
Naloxone Must Be Implemented Effectively to Save Lives
While Narcan and naloxone injectables can reverse a non-fatal opioid overdose, they still require ongoing follow-up with medical attention. Using Narcan on individuals dependent on opioids may result in severe opioid withdrawal, which requires hospitalization or at least observation by medical professionals.
In addition, these life-saving drugs must also be distributed effectively by first responders and family members of those at risk to opioid dependence.
The availability of nonprescription and prescription naloxone could help further increase its distribution and accessibility, potentially saving more lives and reducing the burden of opioid overdose on individuals, families, and communities across America.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
