RiVive™: A New Over-the-Counter Nasal Naloxone Product
New Naloxone Product Approved by the FDA
RiVive™ is a brand-new over-the-counter (OTC) nasal naloxone product scheduled for launch in early 2024. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this second naloxone product for over the counter (OTC) use on July 28th, 2023. This green light from the FDA is a significant step, as it means consumers will be able to obtain RiVive™, without needing a prescription, at major pharmacies and retailers. Let’s take a look at this exciting launch and what it means for our community.
What is RiVive™?
Manufactured by Harm Reduction Therapeutics (HRT), RiVive™ is a 3mg naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray. Its applicator is consistent with other nasal products available on the market. HRT is a non-profit pharmaceutical company whose goal is to make their nasal spray free or as inexpensive as possible, and company representatives indicating an initial target price point of $36 for a two-dose carton.
The 3mg formulation is in response to trends towards higher-dosage formats in recent years. Driven by the Harm Reduction community, the lower dosage decreases the likelihood of extreme withdrawal symptoms precipitated by using more naloxone than may be necessary to revive an individual experiencing an overdose. The 3mg dosage has been deemed safe and effective by the FDA approval, with comparable early absorption to other products.
Addressing Industry Challenges
A recent article in The Washington Post shed light on industry challenges, suggesting that major manufacturers may have played a role in limiting access to life-saving medications. Issues around restricted supply chains, potential pricing concerns, and brand dominance have hindered the creation of a competitive market that could lower the cost of the medication.
RiVive™’s offers an alternative product that seeks to disrupt these practices and promote a more purpose-motivated approach to addressing the opioid crisis. Furthermore, its introduction may also help drive competitive pricing for this crucial medication.
Rooted in Harm Reduction
RiVive™’s purpose is as explicit as it is crucial in the fight against opioid overdoses: HRT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pharmaceutical company whose mission is to increase access to a free or low-cost, easy-to-use naloxone nasal spray. Rooted in harm reduction principles, RiVive is more than just a product – it’s a commitment to saving lives. HRT has attested that it will prioritize harm reduction groups and state programs through its distribution and sales model.
The launch of RiVive™ signifies a significant milestone in our battle against opioid overdose: its accessibility, FDA approval, and mission-driven model are indeed encouraging in these difficult times. As we continue our unwavering commitment to saving lives and enhancing community safety, RiVive™ stands as a valuable addition to the Harm Reduction landscape.
Learn more about Harm Reduction Therapeutics, Inc, and RiVive™ here.