Bulgaria's health ministry has asked drug companies that hold licences for naloxone medicines to request a maximum price for them in Bulgaria. The aim is to make the overdose antidote easier to get.

The ministry says the risk from fentanyl and other opioids is growing.

Naloxone is a drug that can save a life in an opioid overdose. The ministry says it quickly counters the dangerous effects of opioids, including slowed breathing. Every minute counts in an overdose, so the ministry considers fast access to the drug decisive.

To get a maximum price, companies must apply to the National Council on Prices and Reimbursement of Medicinal Products. The procedure is easier than getting on the Positive Drug List: it needs fewer documents and the administrative fee is lower.

The ministry wants a maximum price to secure access to life-saving treatment and protect patients. It expects the pharmaceutical industry to act and show social responsibility. In its view, access to naloxone is an important part of the effort to respond better to overdoses of fentanyl and other opioids.

The documents and application steps are on the Council's website, under "Administrative Services". Companies should open the sub-section "Procedures for the provision of administrative services" and then "Setting a maximum price for a medicinal product".

Companies with questions can contact the Council directly.