With U.S. opioid overdoses reaching all-time highs, the manufacturer of a drug that blocks overdose is offering a free carton of its product to any U.S. high school that wants it, according to ABC News.
The product is called Narcan and is manufactured by Adapt Pharma. The drug contained in the medication is naloxone, which, when injected through the nose or administered intravenously, can reverse opioid overdoses by blocking receptors in the central nervous system.
"This device will equip those in our communities — families, friends, caregivers and school nurses — with a tool they can rely on without need for medical training or expertise," said Mike Kelly, president of U.S. operations at Adapt Pharma, in a statement, according to ABC News.
Combating the opioid crisis has become a priority for many in the federal government in recent months. For example, the Senate passed a drug addiction bill, the Food and Drug Administration announced new warning requirements for opioid medication labels and the Obama administration announced actions to combat the epidemic.
More articles on opioids:
Study: 32% of opioid prescriptions are abused in the US
Mass General: Addicts take opioids on hospital campus for quick intervention in case of OD
Baltimore Health Commissioner: One-third of opioid-related deaths due to fatal drug combination