Doctor says FDA approval of over-the-counter Narcan will save lives in Milwaukee County

MILWAUKEE COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The opioid epidemic has been ravaging southeast Wisconsin but help could be on the way. Narcan might eventually be available over the counter.

On Wednesday, Feb. 15, the FDA advisory committee endorsed the over-the-counter sale of Narcan, an overdose reversal drug.

In 2022 Milwaukee County reported almost 500 fatal opioid overdoses. That trend of fatalities has been growing in the last several years. That is why Tahira Malik of Samad's House, a sober living facility for women, said the approval of over-the-counter Narcan could be life-changing for many folks in Milwaukee.

"The reality is that we're consistently losing a large amount of people. If the FDA approves it, it makes it more accessible for everyone," said Malik.

In Wisconsin there is a standing order where pharmacies can distribute Narcan without consulting a personal doctor. Doctor Zaibak of Hayat Pharmacy said, if Narcan is approved over the counter, it will make the life-changing drug more accessible.

"It going over the counter will make it even easier because now we can put it on the shelf, the patient doesn't have to go to the pharmacy to get it. There's also a stigma associated with it so that's going to remove some of the stigma," said Dr. Zaibak.

Dr. Zaibak said making Narcan over-the-counter accessible could make it more affordable. He said a brand name Narcan kit could go for upwards of $90 without insurance.

Dr. Zaibak said almost all of his clients have used insurance to buy Narcan, which covers the cost completely, but that could potentially change if the endorsement is approved.

"Historically when a product went from prescription to over the counter, a lot of third payers, a lot of insurance companies stop paying for the products," said Dr. Zaibak.

Either way, Dr. Zaibak believes the benefits outweighs the risks. A decision from the FDA is expected by March 29.