The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given green signal to Narcan nasal spray. The spray, which has received approval today, is nasal spray version of naloxone hydrochloride, a medication to stop or reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

It is the first spray version of naloxone hydrochloride that has the approval of the FDA. Stephen Ostroff, MD, acting commissioner, Food and Drug Administration, said that it has become quite important for them to crackdown the opioid overuse.

“We cannot stand by while Americans are dying. While naloxone will not solve the underlying problems of the opioid epidemic, we are speeding to review new formulations that will ultimately save lives that might otherwise be lost to drug addiction and overdose”, said Ostroff.

Before the spray form was approved, naloxone was permitted for injected form only. It is considered that a nasal spray is much more effective and can be delivered easily. Owing to which, there are many unapproved naloxone kits available.

But now, people will have access to a product that has been approved by the FDA. The drug was able to meet the FDA’s high standards with regard to safety, efficacy and quality. One of the best things about Narcan nasal spray is that it provides a measured dose.

The product can be used on adults and children. It can be easily taken by anyone without requiring any medical training. The product has received the FDA approval in just four months, which was quite ahead of the goal date of January 20, 2016.