Old newspaper boxes are being used to distribute the overdose reversal drug Narcan

Associated Press

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Old newspaper boxes are being repurposed into containers that distribute Narcan, an emergency treatment to reverse drug overdoses. The boxes have proliferated nationwide since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the sale of naloxone without a prescription. They are appearing in neighborhoods, in front of hospitals, health departments and convenience stores. They are one way those supporting people with substance use disorder have sought to make Narcan, which can cost around $50 over the counter, accessible to those who need it most. Sixty Narcan boxes were distributed across 35 states in honor of Thursday’s “Save a Life Day.” The Narcan distribution and education event was started by a West Virginia nonprofit in 2020.