Press Releases

Edwards Statement on FDA Approval of Naloxone Auto-Injector Evzio

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 3, 2014


Evzio Would Aid Community-Based Efforts To Fight Drug Overdose Found In S.O.S. Act

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards (MD-4) issued the following statement regarding the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of naloxone Auto-Injector Evzio.  Evzio will make it far easier for individuals who are not first-responders, such as family and friends, to administer naloxone in case of emergency.  

“I welcome today’s announcement by the Food and Drug Administration approving naloxone auto-injector Evzio. With this fast-track approval, American families will now have access to a treatment to help loved ones suffering from a known or suspected opioid-related drug overdose. Overall, drug overdoses have skyrocketed over the past decade and now kill approximately 100 people every day, more than automobile accidents.

“I reintroduced the Stop Overdose Stat (S.O.S.) Act, HR 4169, to help support community-based efforts to prevent fatal drug overdoses nationwide. I am encouraged by the support the bill has gained from both chambers of Congress and by recent statements on the importance of expanding access to naloxone by Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Attorney General Eric Holder, and the Office of National Drug Control Policy.

“Opioid-related deaths continue to rise across the country and it is time to launch a coordinated response.  Today’s announcement puts a proven life-saving treatment, naloxone, in the hands of loved ones.  Combine Evzio with the SOS Act to develop a national plan and these are critical steps to address what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers an epidemic.”

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