WASHINGTON – Today, Emily’s Hope, a non-profit organization dedicated to removing the stigma of substance use disorder and providing support for treatment and recovery, celebrates the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) groundbreaking decision to approve Narcan, a 4 milligram (mg) naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray, for over-the-counter (OTC) use. This marks the first time a naloxone product has been approved for use without a prescription, making it more accessible to the public and increasing the chances of saving lives from opioid overdoses.
In light of the recent FDA decision, Angela Kennecke, CEO and Founder of Emily’s Hope, said, “We are elated by the FDA’s decision to make Narcan available without a prescription. This is a significant step forward in addressing the opioid crisis and will save countless lives. Emily’s Hope will continue to work diligently to spread awareness, offer education, and provide resources to ensure that people across the U.S. know how to access and use this life-saving drug.”
According to the FDA, drug overdose remains a significant public health issue in the United States. Nearly 108,000 suspected fatal overdoses were reported in the 12 months ending in October 2022, primarily driven by synthetic opioids like illicit fentanyl. The approval of OTC Narcan nasal spray is a significant milestone in the fight against the opioid crisis.
In addition to celebrating the FDA’s decision, Emily’s Hope is currently developing a prevention education curriculum for students in grades K-12 nationwide. This initiative aims to teach children about the effects of substances on the brain, body, and life, promoting healthy choices and providing the tools needed to make informed decisions as they grow older.
Angela Kennecke founded Emily’s Hope in honor of her daughter Emily, who tragically died from fentanyl poisoning. The organization has since helped more than 350 people enter recovery and is committed to removing the stigma of substance use disorder through awareness, education, prevention, and by removing financial barriers for treatment and recovery.
For more information about Emily’s Hope, its mission, and ongoing initiatives, please visit https://emilyshope.charity.
Photo Courtesy of Emergent
Media Contact:
Anna Fey
Executive Assistant/Marketing Manager
Emily’s Hope
annafey@emilyshope.charity
605-940-3504
Editor/Producer Note:
Angela Kennecke, CEO and Founder of Emily’s Hope is available for interviews to discuss today’s groundbreaking FDA decision to approve over-the-counter Narcan nasal spray and its impact on the fight against the opioid crisis. Angela has been featured on NBC Nightly News, ABC World News Tonight, CBS This Morning, NewsNation, and dozens of other national outlets.
Over the last decade, Angela has focused many of her stories on the growing opioid crisis. Tragically, her 21-year-old daughter, Emily, died of a fentanyl overdose. In the wake of this personal loss, Angela has taken Emily’s story nationwide and even internationally. She speaks tirelessly about the issues surrounding opioid addiction, a parent’s frustration, and a sense of helplessness, all from the perspective of a mother who has lost her child.
To schedule an interview with Angela Kennecke, please contact Anna Fey at annafey@emilyshope.charity or 605-940-3504.
About Emily’s Hope
Emily’s Hope is a non-profit organization dedicated to removing the stigma of substance use disorder through awareness, education, and prevention; and removing financial barriers for treatment and recovery. Founded by Angela Kennecke in memory of her daughter Emily, Emily’s Hope has helped nearly 250 people enter recovery and is working tirelessly to develop a prevention education curriculum for students K-12.