Ohio Kroger pharmacies to offer OD drug without prescription

The Kroger Co., announced that it will make the opioid overdose reversal medicine naloxone available without a prescription at its 84 pharmacies in southwestern Ohio and 16 pharmacies in Northern Kentucky beginning Monday (Source: “Kroger to offer OD drug without prescription,” Cincinnati Enquirer, Feb. 12, 2016).

Shoppers may show up at the Kroger pharmacies once the program starts to ask for naloxone, or they can call ahead. They do not need an appointment. Kroger pharmacy workers will provide training and screening before they get the naloxone kits. Naloxone is an easily administered non-narcotic that pulls overdose victims into immediate withdrawal, restoring breathing.

Calling the opioid epidemic "the worst" drug problem he's seen in the U.S. in his lifetime, Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine said Kroger's move to provide naloxone will save lives. "It is so very, very important that people have this available," he said.

U.S. Sen. Rob Portman said Kroger is saving lives and added, "That's where we need to focus right now."