More than half of the states in which Albertsons Cos. operates have taken action to halt the rise in opioid-related deaths by passing legislation to allow pharmacies to dispense the opioid antagonist naloxone, or Narcan, without a prescription. That is, in part, why Albertsons Cos. has specially trained nearly 3,000 pharmacists to administer the FDA-approved Narcan Nasal Spray and counsel patients on the use of the medication. The company’s pharmacy banners, including Acme, Albertsons, Albertsons Market, Carrs, Pavilions, Randalls, Safeway, Shaw’s, Tom Thumb and Vons, currently can dispense Narcan in Alaska, California, Colorado, Idaho, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and Washington.
Due to this growing drug epidemic in the U.S., many states have approved the sale of naloxone without a prescription, removing a barrier for those who may need the drug for themselves or a loved one.
Narcan Nasal Spray, the treatment provided at Albertsons Cos.’ pharmacies, is the first and only FDA-approved naloxone nasal spray for the emergency treatment of a known or suspected opioid overdose, including heroin. The naloxone-dispensing procedures are specifically designed to not only help save lives in the event of an overdose, but to aid in the patient’s recovery so he or she can then seek medical treatment or drug counseling.
Administration of the medication includes a private consultation with the pharmacist to determine the patient’s eligibility, with consultation on Narcan expectations and explanation of the adverse event safety profile, and in some cases, notification to the patient’s primary care provider.
“The research on naloxone as an emergency treatment for opioid overdoses is proven. With our teams in place as a resource for this medication, we are keeping with our commitment to serve and improve the health and wellness of all our customers while also making our communities stronger,” said Mark Panzer, Albertsons Cos.’ SVP of pharmacy, health and wellness.
