Pharma Pulse: FDA Approval of Leucovorin Calcium for CFD and Persistent Inequities in OTC Naloxone Access

Welcome to Pharma Pulse, a Pharmaceutical Commerce podcast in which we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and let’s get into today's headlines.

• Retail data reveals that while over-the-counter naloxone prices dropped by roughly $0.49 per quarter through late 2024, unit sales actually fell by 2%. Significant racial and geographic disparities persist, with costs estimated at over $5 higher per unit in Native American and Alaska Native communities, while pharmacy deserts and inconsistent stocking continue to limit same-day availability in rural areas.
• In other news, the FDA has granted expanded approval to leucovorin calcium tablets, also known as Wellcovorin, for the treatment of cerebral folate transport deficiency. This marks the first-ever FDA-approved therapy for this ultra-rare neurological condition, with clinical evidence showing that 89% of treated patients demonstrated meaningful neurological improvements.

That’s it for this episode of Pharma Pulse. For more insights on trends transforming pharmaceutical access, visit pharmaceuticalcommerce.com.

Thanks for listening—until next time, stay well and stay informed.

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