ALBANY- In a significant step in the fight against the opioid epidemic, state officials are increasing the availability of naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, at pharmacies throughout the state. Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of a drug overdose caused by substances such as heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioids.
Major pharmacy chains, including Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, and Rite Aid, are set to begin offering Naloxone both online and in their physical stores starting this month. This move follows a statewide pharmacy standing order implemented in August 2022, making it easier for individuals to obtain naloxone without the need for a prescription. Naloxone has been available for use by non-medical personnel in New York State since 2006, and since then, over 35,000 administrations of naloxone have been reported to the state Department of Health (DOH).
Governor Hochul emphasized the urgency of addressing the opioid epidemic, which has affected countless New Yorkers.
“The opioid and overdose epidemic has impacted far too many New Yorkers,” said Hochul. “Alongside harm reduction, preventive, and treatment support programs, the expanded availability of Narcan has saved lives throughout New York State, and over-the-counter accessibility will save even more. We will continue to focus State resources towards addressing the overdose epidemic effectively and compassionately.”
DOH Commissioner Dr. James McDonald also expressed the importance of easy access to Naloxone and treatment programs in combating opioid use disorder, which affects many New Yorkers. The state is actively working to address the crisis with a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery efforts.
This summer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an estimated 110,000 fatalities from drug overdoses, highlighting the need for robust measures to combat the opioid epidemic. New York State is set to receive more than $2 billion from settlements with opioid manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies, a portion of which will directly support prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery efforts.
Individuals can receive training on how to obtain and administer Naloxone at over 1,000 registered programs located throughout the state, all at no cost. More information on these programs is available on the DOH’s website.
