Pharmacists May Continue to Prescribe Naloxone

September 27, 2023

Earlier this year, the federal Food and Drug Administration approved Narcan, 4 milligram naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray, and ReVive, 3 milligram naloxone hydrochloric nasal spray, for over-the-counter (OTC) use. Naloxone hydrochloride is used to rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. While Narcan became available for sale over-the-counter this month, the Department encourages licensed pharmacists to continue prescribing naloxone for patients when appropriate.

The Department urges pharmacists to continue to offer to prescribe naloxone for patients when appropriate. This includes when filling prescriptions for:

• Medications within the opioid class of drugs;
• Patients with a history of opioid use disorder;
• Family members and friends of individuals with a history of opioid use disorder; and,
• Upon request by a patient.

As some insurance providers, including Medicaid, may continue to cover Narcan and ReVive, pharmacists should continue to submit claims when dispensing naloxone prescribed by a pharmacist or other authorized prescriber. Patients whose insurance providers do not cover these medications should contact their insurance provider for more information.