Opioid Reversal Treatment: Opvee

Opioid reversal has another option in its toolkit. In May of 2023 the FDA endorsed Opvee, a nasal spray to reverse an opioid overdose. Opvee’s active ingredient, nalmefene, was available as in injectable in the 1990’s but removed from the market due to low sales. The difference between Opvee and the available product Narcan (naloxone) is the duration of its effect and dosage form. Narcan wears off after about 2 hours while Opvee’s effects are sustained for up to 6 hours.  Is this longer acting product superior? No clinical data supports the potential benefit of reducing the risk of respiratory depression returning or the potential downside of prolonging withdrawal. Opvee is available as a nasal spray only while Narcan is available as a nasal spray or injection. Prices of prescription Opvee mirror that of prescription nasal Narcan. OTC Narcan can cost about half of the prescription-only versions. Don’t be surprised in your PBM has both on formulary to increase access. Competition is not likely to drive down costs unlike other drug classes. If a patient is concerned about affording their medications, many free clinics have this available for patients to take home without a fee. If a patient or caregiver needs additional support or training, free videos, online training and materials can be found at Videos (prescribetoprevent.org).

FDA Approves Prescription Nasal Spray to Reverse Opioid Overdose | FDA