CVS says it will begin stocking a drug in Florida and 6 other states this summer that can be taken in the event of heroin overdose.
Naloxone can save a life during a potentially fatal heroin overdose, if administered in time, according to study results published in the April issue of the American Journal of Public Health.
"By expanding availability of this medication, we can save lives and give more people a chance to get the help they need for recovery," said Tom Davis, RPh, Vice President of Pharmacy Professional Practices at CVS Pharmacy, in a statement.
CVS says its program establishes a standing order with a physician in the state and allows CVS pharmacists to dispense naloxone to patients without an individual prescription.
Naloxone, which is sold under the brand name Narcan, is already available without a prescription at CVS pharmacies in 23 states.
Some first responders carry the drug with them.
Drug addiction specialists say the need for a frontline defense to counter the impact of heroin use is growing.