Introduction to California’s Initiative
Californians can now buy opioid reversal drugs directly from the state under a program aimed at making the life-saving medication less expensive and more accessible, officials said Monday.
The state began selling its own generic version of Narcan last year for $24 per twin-pack to businesses and local governments, and will now also sell to individual consumers online. A box containing two doses of naloxone nasal spray costs between $45 and $70 from regular pharmacies and online marketplaces.
The Opioid Crisis in California
Opioid overdose deaths, which are caused by heroin, fentanyl and oxycodone, have increased dramatically in California and across the country in recent years, reaching 7,847 in the state in 2023. But California officials say they have started to see a decline in these deaths.
Governor Newsom’s Initiative
The move is part of a broader push by California Gov. Gavin Newsom to try to force drug companies to lower their prices by offering cheaper, competing versions of medication under the state’s CalRx label.
“Life-saving medications shouldn’t come with a life-altering price tag. CalRx is about making essential drugs like naloxone affordable and accessible for all — not the privileged few,” Newsom said in a statement.
Naloxone and Its Importance
Naloxone, which can reverse overdoses of opioids, has been available in the U.S. without a prescription since March of 2023, when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Narcan, a nasal spray brand produced by the Maryland-based pharmaceutical company Emergent BioSolutions.
California’s Plan for Affordable Medication
California is also working on a plan to make insulin more affordable for residents. The state has an agreement with the nonprofit Civica to produce CalRx-branded insulin used to treat diabetes.
Conclusion
The initiative by California to sell generic Narcan online is a significant step towards making life-saving medications more accessible and affordable for its residents. With the state’s efforts to produce cheaper versions of essential drugs, Californians can expect to see a positive impact on their healthcare costs.
FAQs
What is Narcan and how does it work?
Narcan is a nasal spray brand of naloxone, which can reverse overdoses of opioids.
How much does the generic version of Narcan cost?
The state is selling its generic version of Narcan for $24 per twin-pack.
Is naloxone available without a prescription?
Yes, naloxone has been available in the U.S. without a prescription since March 2023.
What other medications is California planning to make more affordable?
California is also working on a plan to make insulin more affordable for residents.
Originally Published: April 21, 2025 at 11:39 AM PDT
