The FDA has approved a nasal spray version of naloxone hydrochloride (marketed as Narcan) to stop or reverse opioid overdose. The drug was previously approved only as an injection; the new version, says the agency, is both easier for first responders to administer and eliminates the risk for needlestick contamination.
The drug is indicated for adults and children and can be given by caregivers without medical training. It can counter the effects of overdose within about 2 minutes, but the FDA notes that patients will still need appropriate medical attention after the spray is administered. Side effects include opioid withdrawal symptoms such as body aches, diarrhea, fever, increased blood pressure, tachycardia, and vomiting.
Naloxone nasal spray is a prescription drug. For group purchasers (e.g., government agencies, educational organizations), it will cost $37.50 per dose — cheaper than the injectable version, the Guardian reports.
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