FDA expands access to overdose-reversing Narcan. How Kentuckians can find it now
Kentucky has seen a surge in overdose deaths in recent years, driven largely by a flood of deadly fentanyl into the state.
In 2021, fentanyl accounted for 70% of all overdose deaths in the commonwealth.
That same year, 2,250 Kentuckians died from drug overdoses, amounting to a 15% increase compared to the year prior, in 2020. When adjusted for population, Kentucky is second in the nation for overdose deaths, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
But a recent decision from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration means Kentuckians can now purchase an overdose-reversing nasal spray without a prescription and potentially save a life.
The FDA’s March 29 ruling authorized over-the-counter sales of Narcan, a brand name of the drug naloxone. The nasal spray inhibits the effect of opioids like oxycodone, fentanyl or heroin and can save the life of someone experiencing an overdose.
Narcan will be sold in pharmacies, gas stations, convenience stores, grocery stores and online, and should be available by late summer.
Here’s what to know about Narcan, including where to find it in Kentucky once available.
What is Naloxone and how does it work to reverse an overdose?
Naloxone is a medication approved by the FDA and designed to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. It does this by binding to opioid receptors, and it can reverse and block the effects of opioids like heroin, morphine and oxycodone, among others.
It’s designed to be used on someone exhibiting signs of an opioid overdose, but its effects do not last long. That’s why experts recommend seeking medical intervention immediately after its use.
Signs of an opioid overdose include:
Bluish lips and nose
Abnormal breathing, including very slow or no breathing at all
The person doesn’t wake or respond to touch
Pin-point sized pupils
Naloxone does have some side effects. The National Institute on Drug Abuse warns the drug triggers withdrawal symptoms if given to a person with a physical dependence on opioids. Those symptoms include headaches, nausea, vomiting, sweating, tremors and rapid heart rate, among others. While it isn’t pleasant, it’s usually not life-threatening and a better option than a fatal overdose.
A dose of naloxone also doesn’t guarantee a person will survive an overdose, but they will be significantly more likely to. A 2022 Penn State study found people were at least nine times more likely to survive overdose after receiving at least one dose of naloxone.
How to administer Narcan to stop an opioid overdose
If someone is experiencing signs of an overdose, administer a dose of Narcan by first placing them on their back. You should gently insert the tip of the spray nozzle into one nostril until your fingers on either side of the nozzle are against the bottom of the person’s nose. Press the plunger firmly to give them a dose of Narcan, then remove it and get emergency medical help immediately.
In most cases, a single dose should be enough, but if the person is experiencing an overdose triggered by a strong opioid, such as fentanyl, two doses might be required to revive them. If the person doesn’t begin to wake up within a few minutes of the first dose, apply a second dose to the other nostril.
Kentucky’s Good Samaritan Law shields people from prosecution when they report a drug overdose, so don’t hesitate to call 911.
Where can I get Narcan in Kentucky?
According to Susan Dunlap, the chief spokesperson for the state Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Kentuckians may obtain life-saving Narcan through a standing order.
“Currently, Kentuckians may obtain this life-saving medication at their local pharmacy through a standing order, and it is fully covered by Medicaid,” Dunlap wrote in an email to the Herald-Leader. “For those with other insurance plans, there is an existing program that can cover up to $60 of the copayment per prescription.”
Prices for Narcan can vary, though PBS reports two doses often sell for about $50.
Additionally, Kentuckians can request naloxone at their local health department or online at nextdistro.org/kentucky, Dunlap wrote.
If an organization is looking to access naloxone for their facilities or employees, they can do it online at kphanet.org/kore.
For information about training on overdose reversal and naloxone administration, there’s the Kentucky Harm Reduction Coalition.
“With a focus on the reduction of overdose deaths across the Commonwealth, the coalition aims to combat stigma associated with substance use disorders, and promote the use of harm reduction strategies,” Dunlap wrote.
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