How Much Does Narcan Cost?

Narcan, the brand name for naloxone, is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose and save lives in emergency situations. With the rising toll of the opioid epidemic, many people are asking, How much does Narcan cost? The answer depends on factors like the form of Narcan, whether you have insurance, and where you purchase it.

This article will explore everything related to the cost of Narcan, including its retail prices, insurance coverage, ways to access it for free, and why prices vary. You’ll also learn about programs, discounts, and expert advice on making this life-saving medication more affordable and accessible.

How Much Does Narcan Cost?

Narcan nasal spray costs between $120 and $150, but generic naloxone injections are available for as little as $20 per dose.

Retail Price Range

The retail price of Narcan varies depending on where it is purchased, the form of the medication, and the pharmacy. On average, a two-pack of Narcan nasal spray costs between $120 and $150 at pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid. Generic naloxone injections, which are less expensive, typically range from $20 to $60 per dose.

For uninsured individuals, these costs can be challenging to manage, especially if Narcan is needed repeatedly. Pharmacies may also charge different prices depending on their agreements with manufacturers and their location.

Generic Naloxone vs. Brand-Name Narcan

While brand-name Narcan is more commonly used, generic naloxone is a more affordable alternative. Generic naloxone is often available as an injectable solution and costs significantly less, ranging from $20 to $40 per dose at some pharmacies. Despite the price difference, both forms of naloxone are equally effective in reversing opioid overdoses.

Form and Cost Differences

• Narcan Nasal Spray: Costs between $120 and $150 for a two-pack. This form is easy to use, making it a popular choice for individuals and families.
• Naloxone Injection: Costs between $20 and $60 per dose, but requires training to administer properly.
• Naloxone Auto-Injectors: These can cost upwards of $2,000 and are typically used in clinical settings or by first responders.

Prices also vary by location, with urban areas often having more competitive pricing than rural regions.

According to NBC News, when Narcan becomes available OTC, it is expected to cost less than $50 for a two-dose package. This is a reduction from the current list price of around $130 for a two-dose box. However, even at this lower price, affordability remains a concern for many, as OTC medications are typically not covered by insurance.

On The Texas Tribune, Narcan is reported to cost around $43 for a two-dose box, with each dose priced at approximately $22.50. This pricing reflects the retail cost in pharmacies where it is available, often kept behind the counter due to concerns about theft.

The article on CalRx highlights that California offers OTC naloxone nasal spray for $24 per twin-pack through the CalRx Naloxone Access Initiative. This initiative aims to increase affordability and accessibility for critical overdose reversal medication.

According to Medical News Today, the cost of Narcan can vary significantly based on insurance coverage and pharmacy location. While specific prices for OTC Narcan are not detailed, prescription versions may be covered by insurance, reducing out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Lastly, Emergent BioSolutions states that the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for Narcan Nasal Spray is $44.99 per carton, which equates to about $22.50 per dose. This pricing reflects the OTC version, which aims to balance accessibility with affordability.

What is Narcan?

Narcan is the brand name for naloxone, a medication that quickly reverses the life-threatening effects of an opioid overdose. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, effectively reversing symptoms like slowed breathing and unconsciousness. Narcan is available as a nasal spray and an injection, making it accessible for both medical professionals and bystanders.

The opioid crisis has made Narcan an essential tool in saving lives. According to the CDC, over 100,000 people in the U.S. died from drug overdoses in a single year, with opioids accounting for the majority. Because of this, many public health initiatives focus on increasing the availability and affordability of Narcan to reduce fatalities.

Making Narcan accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation, is a public health priority. The cost of this medication can sometimes be a barrier, which is why programs, policies, and discounts aim to ensure that Narcan is widely available.

Does Insurance Cover Narcan?

Private Insurance Coverage

Most private insurance plans cover Narcan or naloxone, but the copay or out-of-pocket costs can vary. For example, individuals with high-deductible plans might pay $20 to $50 or more for Narcan, while those with better coverage may only pay a small copay.

To find out how much you’ll pay, contact your insurance provider and ask about your coverage for Narcan nasal spray or naloxone injections.

Medicaid and Medicare

For people enrolled in Medicaid, Narcan is often available for free or with a nominal copay, usually between $0 and $5. Medicare Part D plans also cover Narcan, but the copay can range from $10 to $30, depending on the plan. Medicaid and Medicare programs play a significant role in making Narcan accessible to low-income individuals.

Cost for the Uninsured

Uninsured individuals face the highest costs for Narcan. Without insurance, the price of a Narcan nasal spray two-pack can range from $120 to $150, while naloxone injections cost $20 to $60 per dose. However, there are programs and resources available to help reduce these costs.

How to Get Narcan for Free or at a Discount

State and Federal Programs

Many state and federal programs aim to make Narcan accessible to those who need it. For example, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) funds initiatives that provide Narcan for free to high-risk populations. State health departments often distribute free Narcan through public health programs.

Harm Reduction Organizations

Nonprofits like NEXT Distro and the Harm Reduction Coalition provide free naloxone kits to individuals at risk of an overdose or those who may witness one. These programs are often funded by donations and grants to remove financial barriers.

Discounts and Coupons

Pharmacy programs like GoodRx offer discounts that can significantly lower the cost of Narcan. For example, a GoodRx coupon can reduce the price of a Narcan two-pack from $120 to as low as $75 at participating pharmacies. Manufacturer discounts from Emergent BioSolutions, which produces Narcan, are also available.

Community Health Centers

Local community health centers and public health initiatives often provide Narcan for free or at a reduced cost. These programs aim to increase access to naloxone in underserved communities and among vulnerable populations.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Narcan

FDA Approval of OTC Narcan

In recent years, the FDA approved Narcan nasal spray for over-the-counter (OTC) sales. This decision has made it easier for individuals to purchase Narcan without a prescription, increasing its availability.

Also read our article about the cost of drug and alcohol testing.

Pricing for OTC Narcan

The price for OTC Narcan is similar to its prescription counterpart, ranging from $120 to $150 for a two-pack. However, discounts and coupons may not always apply to OTC purchases.

Where to Buy OTC Narcan

OTC Narcan is available at major pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart, as well as online retailers. Some telehealth platforms also offer Narcan as part of their addiction treatment services.

Comparing Narcan Prices

Pharmacy Price Comparison

Here’s a breakdown of Narcan prices at major pharmacies:

Pharmacy	Narcan Nasal Spray (2-Pack)	Generic Naloxone (Injection)
CVS	$120 – $140	$30 – $50 per dose
Walgreens	$125 – $150	$40 – $60 per dose
Walmart	$110 – $130	$25 – $40 per dose

Online Retailers

Online options like Amazon and pharmacy websites also offer Narcan at competitive prices. Some telehealth platforms provide naloxone as part of their addiction treatment programs, often at discounted rates.

Bulk Purchasing and Nonprofits

Organizations and first responders often buy naloxone in bulk through government programs or nonprofit partnerships, which significantly reduces the cost per dose. Bulk pricing is typically not available to individual consumers.

Why Narcan Costs Vary

Brand vs. Generic Naloxone

Brand-name Narcan is more expensive due to marketing and manufacturing costs, whereas generic naloxone offers a cheaper alternative. Despite the price difference, both are equally effective in treating opioid overdoses.

Retail Markups and Manufacturer Pricing

Retail pharmacies often add markups to Narcan’s price, which can lead to significant cost differences between stores. Manufacturer pricing also plays a role; for example, Emergent BioSolutions, the maker of Narcan, sets higher prices for its brand-name products.

Regional Price Differences

Urban areas with higher demand for naloxone may have slightly cheaper prices due to competitive markets. In contrast, rural areas may face higher costs due to limited availability.

Making Narcan More Affordable

Making Narcan affordable and accessible is essential to saving lives during the opioid epidemic. Overdose deaths can be prevented with timely administration of naloxone, but high prices and financial barriers remain a challenge for many individuals.

Advocates and lawmakers are pushing for policies to reduce naloxone costs, including expanding government-funded programs and regulating manufacturer pricing. Increasing the availability of free or low-cost Narcan could dramatically reduce overdose fatalities and improve public health outcomes.

Final Words

The cost of Narcan varies depending on factors like the form of the medication, whether you have insurance, and where you purchase it, with prices ranging from $20 for generic naloxone injections to $150 for a Narcan nasal spray two-pack. For those struggling to afford it, options like state programs, nonprofits, and pharmacy coupons can help reduce or eliminate costs. As the opioid crisis continues, making Narcan affordable and accessible remains a top priority for saving lives. By exploring all available resources, you can ensure this life-saving medication is within reach for those who need it most.

Answers to Common Questions

Does Narcan go bad in heat?

Yes, Narcan can degrade if exposed to high temperatures. It should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 59°F and 77°F, to maintain its effectiveness. Avoid leaving Narcan in hot vehicles or direct sunlight.

How does Narcan need to be stored?

Narcan should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Keeping it in its original packaging helps protect it from environmental factors that could reduce its potency.

How does Narcan work so fast?

Narcan works quickly by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, reversing the effects of opioids within 2 to 5 minutes. This rapid action can restore breathing and consciousness in individuals experiencing an opioid overdose.