- Emergent BioSolutions Inc EBS looks to price its over-the-counter (OTC) version of its opioid overdose reversal Narcan at around $50 per carton of two 4 mg doses.
- The FDA approved the first naloxone product for opioid overdose without a prescription.
- The move paves the way for the medication to reverse an opioid overdose to be sold directly to consumers in drug stores, convenience stores, grocery stores, gas stations, and online stores.
- The OTC version will become available at U.S. stores and online retailers later this summer, giving a lead of around six months, if not more, over competing OTC versions.
- The currently available prescription nasal spray carries a wholesale price tag of $125 per carton.
- Emergent has not disclosed the final price for OTC Narcan yet.
- “A goal for the out-of-pocket retailer price is to be consistent with our public interest pricing for one carton of two 4 milligram doses,” the company said, adding that current price for public interest groups averages less than $50.
- But uncertainty remains around Narcan’s final price, and whether insurers will offer coverage, Reuters reported.
- Prescription Narcan is covered under commercial- and government-backed insurance plans.
- Government-backed Medicare health insurance plans do not cover OTC products but have previously made exceptions, such as in the case of COVID-19 tests.
- Price Action: EBS shares are up 1.17% at $10.38 on the last check Friday.
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