Emergent BioSolutions is launching a campaign to raise public awareness of the risks of opioids through public libraries and YMCAs.
Emergent, through its subsidiary Adapt Pharma, will provide one free box of its NARCAN Nasal Spray along with educational materials to all 16,568 public libraries and 2,700 YMCAs in the United States.
NARCAN is the first and only nasal spray approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Health Canada to treat opioid overdoses.
“Following the roadmap of the free NARCAN Nasal Spray for Schools program launched in 2016 and expanded in 2018, we are forging new collaborations and creating new channels to broaden the reach of our education efforts and to make naloxone more accessible within communities,” Doug White, senior vice president and head of Emergent’s devices business unit, said. “These two programs reflect our commitment to educating the public about the potential risks of opioids and the critical role of naloxone during an opioid overdose emergency and reinforce our mission – to protect and enhance life.”
Emergent closed on its acquisition of Adapt Pharma and its flagship product NARCAN Nasal Spray earlier this month.
“Public libraries are at the heart of every U.S. community and collaborate each day with partners to address critical local needs,” said Michelle Jeske, Denver Public Library city librarian and member of the Public Library Association Board and of the Libraries and the Opioid Crisis Steering Committee. “During the current opioid crisis, libraries are working with other public agencies to identify and share vital information and resources, host community forums, and provide staff trainings to respond to overdoses. This is one step of a long journey toward lasting community-based solutions.”
Kevin Washington, president and CEO of YMCA of the USA, said his organization is grateful to Emergent for providing resources to educate their communities about opioid addiction and the importance of being prepared to treat overdoses.