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Narcan authorized over the counter to fight opioid crisis
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Narcan authorized over the counter to fight opioid crisis

Every year, more than 100,000 Americans die from drug overdoses, and a majority of them involve the use of opioids. To combat the rapidly increasing number of overdoses and nationwide opioid crisis, the Food and Drug Administration has authorized Narcan, a prescribed nasal spray that blocks and reverses opioid’s harm to the brain, to be sold over the counter. This summer, supermarkets, gas stations and online retailers across the nation will start selling the drug.

While Narcan’s accessibility is increasing, the affordability of Narcan poses a concern. Currently, a pharmacy charges between $40 and $100 to fill a prescription of Narcan. While the over-the-counter version of Narcan has not been priced yet, health experts say that its cost will probably prevent many people from accessing the life-saving drug.

“Prescription drugs are really expensive nowadays and if more people have access to Narcan, then it’ll help combat the opioid crisis further.” – Sophomore Rishi Gala.

To increase accessibility and save lives, health and government officials are fighting to set a low price for Narcan when it is released over the counter.

“We’ve got to make sure that these life-saving medications, as well as treatment, is accessible across no matter where you live — rural or urban, rich or poor,” said Nabarun Dasgupta, director of the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy in an interview with CNN.

Some organizations fighting against overdose already offer free Narcan. The People’s Harm Reduction Alliance offers two free doses of Narcan for all Washington residents and End Overdose, a non-profit organization, offers free overdose training, which consists of learning how to recognize an overdose and administer aid. They also offer free doses of Narcan to whoever signs up.

As fatal drug overdoses can unexpectedly occur, Narcan is a necessity that warrants affordability and accessibility for every home, workplace and public area.

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Violet Brose (they/she)
Violet Brose (they/she), Cheeky Editor
Senior Violet Brose is Cheeky Editor and a second-year reporter. They look forward to watching and being featured in burrito compilations as well as working on graphics. In their free time, they enjoy creative writing, art, and taking walks in nature.
Daniel Su (he/him)
Daniel Su (he/him), Junior Web Editor
Senior Daniel Su is super hyped for his third year on Nordic as Junior Web-Editor. This year, he is looking to improve his writing and reporting skills while making sure every student at IHS is represented in Nordic’s stories. Outside of Nordic, Daniel runs XC and plays soccer for the school. He also plays a lot of Brawl Stars. He hopes you find our issues interesting and thought-provoking. Happy reading!
Hope Rasa (she/her)
Hope Rasa (she/her), Web-Editor-in-Chief
Senior Hope Rasa is back for her third year on the Nordic News staff as Web-Editor-in-Chief. In her limited spare time, Hope enjoys reading, writing, knitting, needlepoint, hiking, and listening to music. While on Nordic this year, Hope hopes to improve her writing skills, learn more about journalism, and help make this website become the best it can be.