NYAPRS Note: Governor Cuomo’s office announced Tuesday that Narcan (Naloxone) – a medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdose – will now be available over the counter at independent pharmacies including CVS and Walgreens. This is an important move to help reduce the number of opioid overdose deaths in the state.
SAVING ADDICTS: Narcan to Be Sold Over-the-Counter
Jon Campbell Press Connects March 3, 2016
ALBANY — The medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose will now be available over the counter at New York’s independent pharmacies.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office announced Tuesday that the state’s non-chain pharmacies can now sell naloxone — commonly known by its brand name, Narcan — without a prescription. The decision follows agreements with CVS and Walgreens allowing similar sales.
The Harm Reduction Coalition, a group that receives state funding, will issue an order to the 750 independent pharmacies outside of New York City allowing the over-the-counter sale, according to Cuomo’s office.
“By making this lifesaving medication available in drugstores without a prescription, we are continuing to prevent needless tragedies from occurring and ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to this critical medication,” Cuomo said in a statement.
Naloxone is a nasal spray that is often referred to as an antidote to a heroin or opioid overdose, temporarily reversing the effects and helping the victim regain consciousness.