FDA Approves Over-The-Counter Sales of Naloxone (Narcan) for Opioid Overdose Reversal

The opioid overdose reversal medication naloxone, popularly knocounterwn as Narcan, has been authorized for over-the- sales by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The action is a component of the Biden administration's efforts to stem the American opioid epidemic.

Those who might not have easy access to medical care or who might be reluctant to seek help for opioid use will have easier access to naloxone if it is made available over the counter.

The nasal spray form of naloxone, which is less complicated to use than the injectable form and doesn't need any additional training, is now legal thanks to FDA approval.

The brand name Narcan, which is already well-known among first responders and healthcare professionals, will be used to market the nasal spray version of naloxone.

Also, the FDA has provided manufacturers with guidelines on how to create and label over-the-counter naloxone medications.

The FDA is hoping that the availability of over-the-counter naloxone would aid in lowering the nation's alarmingly high rate of opioid overdose fatalities.Also, the FDA has provided manufacturers with guidelines on how to create and label over-the-counter naloxone medications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that more than 93,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States in 2020, with opioids being the primary cause of these deaths.