News Release

Availability of naloxone in retail pharmacies following introduction of over-the-counter status

JAMA Network Open

Peer-Reviewed Publication

JAMA Network

About The Study: In this cross-sectional study of pharmacies across the U.S., same-day naloxone availability and price remained uneven following over-the counter (OTC) approval. As an initial national evaluation of same-day naloxone availability and price after OTC approval, the findings showed differences in implementation across pharmacy types and community demographic features. Although enactment of the OTC policy was necessary, its intended benefits were not realized equally in practice. Expanding pharmacist education and targeting support for independent and medical-affiliated pharmacies may help improve naloxone access, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Corresponding Author: To contact the corresponding author, Lori Ann Eldridge, PhD, email eldridgel21@ecu.edu.

To access the embargoed study: Visit our For The Media website at this link https://media.jamanetwork.com/

(doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.23617)

Editor’s Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.

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