FDA Approves Risky Opioid Overdose Reversal Product From Purdue Pharma
FDA Approves Risky Opioid Overdose Reversal Product From Purdue Pharma
On August 7 the Food and Drug Administration approved an opioid overdose antidote developed by Purdue Pharma that contains nalmefene, as opposed to the better-known naloxone. Zurnai is the second nalmefene product approved to treat opioid overdose, and the first to be formulated as an auto-injector. It’s expected to become available by prescription in 2025.
The fast-tracked approval reflects a long-planned strategic pivot to harm reduction by Purdue, which is attempting to rehabilitate its public image from the vitriol it earned for downplaying risks of OxyContin. The company is currently in bankruptcy court, negotiating the terms of its opioid settlement payouts. (Filter, USA, 08.08.2024)