Narcan now available over the counter in 68 NH drug stores

CONCORD, NH — A drug that saves lives for people who have overdosed on heroin will now be available over the counter in 68 New Hampshire drug stores.

Monday, NH DHHS officials announced they partnered with Rite Aid to offer Narcan in the stores' pharmacies.

"For this state, it's pretty groundbreaking," said addiction specialist Holly Cekala. "Thank God they're listening. Lives will be saved."

Cekala runs Hope for New Hampshire Recovery Center in Manchester, NH.

Since the center opened in July of this year, she's already shown more than 200 parents how to use Narcan, after they've come seeking help for children battling heroin addiction.

"Their number one fear is that their child is gonna die," Cekala said.

State health officials said the public-private partnership with Rite Aid is another important step in the battle against the heroin epidemic that is sweeping the Granite State.

Cekala agreed, remembering when she used to drive across state lines to purchase Narcan kits for families struggling with addiction issues.

"Kudos to Rite Aid. Thank god that a pharmacy stepped up to the plate to make it available to parents," Cekala told FOX25.

Cox Media Group