Narcan nasal spray can now be purchased over the counter at pharmacies.
The FDA approved Narcan and generic naloxone hydrochloride nasal sprays for over-the-counter use earlier this year. Naloxone is used as emergency treatment to reverse the effects of opioids for a known or suspected overdose.
Pharmacies such as CVS, Walgreens and Walmart are selling Narcan for $45. Area CVS stores do not have the spray in stock yet.
Read more: Monroe Co. Sheriff installs naloxone vending machine, 20 doses distributed already
CVS declined an interview but said Narcan is available for purchase through its app, and it will be available soon at 7,500 stores nationwide. CVS also said its pharmacists are trained to administer naloxone.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Narcan is not covered by all insurance plans. Also, there is no federal age restriction on purchasing it.
“When it wasn’t over the counter, insurance would pay," Justin Phillips, founder of Overdose Lifeline, said. "And now, of course, you can’t have insurance reimbursement because it is over the counter.”
Monroe County has multiple places where someone can pick up Narcan. It is free at the Monroe County Health Department, Indiana Recovery Alliance and Monroe County Jail. The jail is the only place where you do not need an appointment and is available 24 hours.
