First naxolone shipment under settlement with drug maker arrives

Nearly 8,000 doses of naloxone, which reverses the effects of drug overdose, were delivered to Kentucky this week as part of a settlement with Teva Pharmaceuticals, Attorney General Russell Coleman announced.

In October, Teva agreed to pay the state more than $71 million over 13 years, resolving allegations that the company’s marketing and promotional practices fueled the opioid-overdose crisis. In addition to the cash payments, Teva agreed to provide more than 23,000 units of naloxone.

The shipment, the first of four expected this year, went to facilities in Louisville, Florence, Ashland, Paducah and Frankfort. The Opioid Commission is partnering with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services as well as the Kentucky Pharmacists Association for distribution.

“Naloxone is a critical lifeline for Kentucky families struggling with addiction,” Coleman said in a news release. “Equipping first responders, health professionals and treatment providers with this all-important medication can help save lives for Kentuckians on the road to recovery.”

Half of all opoid-settlement funds go to local governments. The state’s half is distribited by the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission is responsible for the distribution, part of the attorney general’s office. On Tuesday, June 4,, the commission will award its next round of grants.

Kentuckians can find out how to get free naloxone near them at FindNaloxoneNowKY.org. Naloxone is also sold under the brand name Narcan by Emergent Solutions Inc.