FDA approves Narcan over-the-counter: Milwaukee pharmacist, harm reduction group reacts

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A nasal spray that can reverse the effects of a drug overdose will soon be available over the counter.

On Tuesday, the Food and Drug Administration approved Narcan and the generic Naloxone for non-prescription use and sale.

So far in 2023, Milwaukee County has had 40 confirmed drug overdose deaths, with more than 100 unconfirmed.

While those are grim statistics, that number would be higher without Narcan.

"It's effective and safe," said Dr. Hashim Zaibak, founder of Hayat Pharmacy.

Dr. Zaibak is optimistic for Narcan to be sold over the counter.

Just a few months ago, it saved a customer who overdosed in his waiting room.

"We immediately administered it, and within two minutes, he was back to normal," Zaibak said.

He believes over-the-counter access will eliminate some of the shame associated with the medication.

"There's always been this stigma, nobody wants to have a prescription in a computer system with their name on it that says Narcan," Zaibak said.

Until now, Narcan was accessible only through prescription, or through harm reduction organizations with grants.

"They give us the stuff and we provide it free of charge," said Rafael Mercado, founder of Team HAVOC, a harm reduction organization in Milwaukee.

While Mercado supports accessibility, he's concerned about the stigma for those who need it. And that groups like his will lose their supply.

"They make it hard even for the addicts to go inside those stores," Mercado said. "Continue to hand it out free, it's needed. It shouldn't be charged for it."

Dr. Zaibak believes improved access will save more lives.

"If anything, the grant dollars will go a little bit further, because it's going to be cheaper," Zaibak said.

Mercado hopes stores selling Narcan will collaborate with harm reduction groups.

"Stop following the stigma and be part of the solution," Mercado said.

"If this is going to help the community, we are in support of it," Zaibak said.

Zaibak believes it may take a few months to see Narcan and Nalaxone on the shelves, as the manufacturers have to change their packaging.

He expects the price to drop significantly.

Currently, prescription Narcan can cost between $80-$100 without insurance.