(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) released the below statement today following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of Narcan, 4 milligram (mg) naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray for over-the-counter (OTC), nonprescription, use – the first naloxone product approved for use without a prescription.
“CHPA applauds FDA for taking a critical step forward today in public health by making Narcan available over-the-counter – previously only available with a prescription – which will remove many of the barriers and stigmas attached to this life-saving emergency therapy for opioid overdoses,” said CHPA President and CEO Scott Melville. “Since naloxone is used in emergency situations where every second counts, OTC access will now give individuals, families, friends, and other responders quicker access to this medication. It will also increase the likelihood that individuals will obtain and carry Narcan, which will potentially save more lives. Today’s decision will positively impact millions of Americans and provide benefits that Rx-to-OTC-switch products have always delivered: increased access to safe, effective, and affordable medicines for better healthcare.”
