Narcan, an emergency opioid overdose reversal remedy, will quickly be out there at U.S. pharmacies with no prescription for about $45. The Meals and Drug Administration permitted Emergent BioSolutions Inc.’s spray for over-the-counter use in March. It’s the primary opioid antidote to be out there with no prescription, which is able to ease entry for hundreds of sufferers and their households.
Right here’s what it is advisable find out about it:
Does Narcan work on heroin and fentanyl overdoses?
Narcan nasal spray is a lifesaving remedy for individuals who overdose on opioids, together with fentanyl and heroin.
How does it work?
When an individual is experiencing an opioid overdose, respiratory slows and the mind is starved of oxygen. This will result in cardiac arrest, mind harm and dying. Narcan is an opioid antagonist that kickstarts respiratory operate, saving lives.
Utilizing Narcan in a person experiencing an overdose might end in extreme opioid withdrawal characterised by an elevated coronary heart fee, nausea and nervousness, based on the FDA. Consultants say its crucial to name emergency responders when administering Narcan.
Who manufactures it?
Emergent, an organization higher recognized for growing and manufacturing countermeasures for organic threats like anthrax and smallpox.
How a lot will it price?
The over-the-counter spray will price about $45 for 2 doses. Emergent says it should decrease the worth to $41 for public curiosity teams, like group organizations and first responders.
Narcan’s price is vital as a result of most well being insurers don’t cowl it with no prescription. Model-name, prescription Narcan can price upwards of $130, however that’s typically lined by insurance coverage.
When and the place will or not it’s out there?
Over-the-counter Narcan shall be available in shops as quickly as early September, based on a press release from the producer. Walgreens, Ceremony Support and CVS will carry the spray, together with Walmart. It is going to be straightforward to search out at checkout registers and pharmacy counters, and even out there for supply for some prospects.
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