29 March 2023- Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force Rep. David Trone (D-MD) released the following statement on the FDA authorizing Narcan for over-the-counter use:
“Studies have shown that more than one in five fatal overdoses could be averted with naloxone if it was distributed to more people in our communities. I applaud the FDA’s decision to bolster access to Narcan. It follows the facts and will undoubtedly save thousands – if not millions – of lives over time. As this plan rolls out, I hope that drug manufacturers work in good faith with pharmacies and insurers to ensure that cost does not become a barrier to care. I’m committed to doing my part in Congress to do just that.”
Congressman Trone’s State Opioid Response Grant Authorization Act of 2021 (H.R.2379) will deliver $8.75 billion over five years to states and tribes to help fund harm reduction (Naloxone distribution), along with treatment and recovery services.
