The FDA Has Approved Narcan for Over-the-Counter Sales…What Does This Mean for Opioid Users?
The FDA Has Approved Narcan for Over-the-Counter Sales…What Does This Mean for Opioid Users?
The medication Narcan has now been in use for around eight years for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose. Recently, though, the status of the drug has changed. Where it was once a prescription medication, now Narcan can be purchased over-the-counter. But what does this mean? Is over-the-counter availability helpful? And why is Narcan legal now?
What Happened?
The FDA approved the use of Narcan for over-the-counter use recently (2023) due to its ability to save the lives of those overdosing on opioids quickly and—if used properly—relatively safely.
Is Over-the-Counter Availability Helpful?
While it’s not ideal to have to administer Narcan if you aren’t a trained professional, it can still save a person’s life. Overdosing is extremely dangerous and can occur quickly. Because of this, Narcan can mean the difference between someone surviving an overdose or passing away.
It’s important to understand how to properly use Narcan and to keep treatment kits close to where use is done. This is by no means an endorsement of opioid misuse. With that in mind, if those around you and you are choosing to use opioids outside of a prescription or how they have been properly prescribed, you should be prepared just in case. If you find you need to administer Narcan, make sure you call 911 immediately.
As there has been an increase in fentanyl use and contamination in the drug supply, and overdose has become an increasingly common occurrence, it’s very important to have Narcan available if you use fentanyl.
Overcoming Your Reliance on Opioids
Narcan is a last resort, and needing to purchase it is a sign that you may be suffering from a substance use disorder. The good news is judgment-free help is available for those suffering from opioid addiction…
Front Door Health provides in-home treatment for patients when they need it. We take an evidence-based approach to treatment, and we create custom treatment plans for our patients to increase their chances of success. Our treatment process is client-focused and individualized. This means no group sessions with strangers and no “treatment as usual” approach. You are unique and the treatment plan we create for you is designed to meet you where you are along your journey and help you to reach your recovery goals.
We understand that it can be difficult to put your life on hold and take time off from parenting, work, or school. Our in-home treatment allows patients to continue to meet their school, family, pet, and other obligations while receiving the treatment they deserve.
If you would like to learn more about in-home treatment, contact Front Door Health today. We’re happy to answer any questions and provide you with the help you need.
info@frontdoorhealthcenter.com
