Governor Branstad approves Naloxone through pharmacies

The state has taken steps to increase access to Naloxone - a lifesaving drug that can help reverse the effects of an opiate overdose - by making it available through pharmacists, Gov. Terry Branstad announced Monday.

'Across the nation, the opioid epidemic has become an increasing challenge. In Iowa, we've seen emergency room visits related to opioid-abuse increase by over 230 percent and opioid-related deaths more than triple over the past decade,” Branstad said during his weekly news conference.

'While treatment and recovery options are available to Iowans, when heroin is consumed its potency is sometimes too powerful and results in death quicker than anyone can expect with a drug addiction.”

More than 60 people died of an opioid-related overdose in Iowa in 2015 while another 2,500 listed heroin or other opioids as the reason they were seeking treatment.

Naloxone is given by nasal spray or injection to reverse the opioid-induced slowing of the respiratory system, allowing the person to temporarily breathe easier while medical care is sought.

'Iowans who are at risk for opioid abuse or have a loved one at-risk can now obtain Naloxone at their local pharmacy through this standing order,” Branstad said.

Earlier this year, state lawmakers passed legislation to better equip first responders with the drug by providing immunity from legal liability for those administering Naloxone as long as they acted reasonably and in good faith.

Read more of our coverage of those dealing with heroin and opioid problems: Heroin's hold

Another bill allowed family members, friends, caregivers and health care providers to possess and use the drug. But the Iowa Department of Public Health still needed to establish standards and procedures for prescribing, distributing, storing and maintaining the drug supply, as well as for the training and authorizing people to administer it.

Iowa Department of Public Health medical director Dr. Patricia Quinlisk now has extended her prescribing authority to pharmacists to allow them to dispense Naloxone to those at risk of opioid overdose, to a family member or friend in a position to assist an at-risk person and to first responders. This makes Iowa the 18th state to expand Naloxone access through pharmacists.

Andrew Funk, Iowa Board of Pharmacy executive director, said - similar to getting an immunization - the standing order means Iowans can purchase the drug from a pharmacy without a prescription from a primary care provider. Pharmacists - who will have to undergo continuing education - go over a questionnaire with the individual, he said, and then, if the pharmacists believe Naloxone is appropriate, educate and train the individual on how to administer it.

Pharmacists can administer up to five kits to one person, he said, adding they can give more to first responders.

'There is obviously a need and the ultimate goal is public safety - whether someone has taken too much of a legally prescribed opiate or a street drug is being abused,” Funk said.

A full Naloxone kit can cost between $20 and $40, according to the company's website.

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