CVS pharmacies in Arkansas have begun allowing access to the opioid-overdose drug Naloxone without a prescription.
In 2015, Arkansas was one of a wave of southern states to expand access to the nasal spray form of the drug that halts an overdose on heroin and other opioids.
State Rep. Ken Bragg, R-Sheridan, co-sponsored a law to give expanded access to the antidote drugs, particularly for first responders.
"What this bill does is allow first responders, which are defined in the bill, to administer this drug if they come upon somebody that they think is having an overdose," he said.
Bragg said there was little controversy among lawmakers over the changes.
According to Howell Foster, director of Arkansas Poison and Drug Information Center, recent efforts to stop illegal prescription drug sales in the state makes heroin use and overdose more likely.
“We have cracked down on prescription drug use, specifically hydrocodone and oxycodone in the state," he said. "If you take the drug away from an addict they are going to find drugs somewhere else," he added.
Naloxone can be administered by needle or in a nasal spray. A related law passed this year gives immunity to individuals seeking medical help during an overdose.
