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If you just obtained a supply of Narcan, that is Emergent Biosolutions brand of naloxone hydrochloride, its shelf life has now been extended by one year from 3 to 4 years. So says the FDA, but this extension only applies to Narcan manufactured after January 17, 2024. The Narcan sitting on your shelf continues with the expiration date shown on the product.

Naloxone, the compound in Narcan, is a lifesaving drug that reverses the respiratory depression and other effects of opioids. As of March, 2023, the drug was made available over-the-counter as the Narcan nasal spray. RiVive branded naloxone nasal spray came on the market for over-the-counter distribution in July, 2023, and the first generic naloxone over-the-counter nasal spray, manufactured by Padagis, became available in August, 2023.

The FDA has approved these 3 over-the-counter opioid-reversal products with the goal of encouraging wide distribution and ready availability in crisis situations. If you or someone you know has or could encounter individuals using or abusing narcotics, you and/or they should have a ready supply of naloxone nasal spray.

There appears to be a shortage of over-the-counter Narcan at pharmacies. The front page of the Boston Globe heralded that fact. Remember that e-commerce outlets such as Amazon carry over-the-counter medications such as Narcan.

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-announces-shelf-life-extension-naloxone-nasal-spray

#naloxone #opioids #Narcan #ReVive

FDA Extends Narcan Shelf Life

Dr. Howard Smith Reports