In the ongoing battle against the opioid epidemic, you would think all levels of government would be unified on doing everything possible to save lives. And yet, that is not happening when it comes to lifesaving products that can stop an overdose in its tracks.

Opioid overdose reversal agents have been a game changer when it comes to bringing people back from the brink of death.

When the first product of its kind — Narcan/naloxone — was approved, Pennsylvania made sure its support of the utilization of this product was stated explicitly in writing via standing health orders that allowed for its use.

Unfortunately, the commonwealth has not kept up with science and research. In the time since the standing order was written, additional reversal agents have been thoroughly reviewed and approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These additional products are better able to target synthetic opioids because they can stay in an individual’s system longer, better counteracting the drugs.

But Pennsylvania’s order is so narrowly written that it does not permit the use of other FDA approved agents. The order is outdated, and it is endangering lives.

As these new products are developed and approved for use, Pennsylvania is keeping its proverbial head in the sand — sticking fast to outdated policies. The Shapiro administration needs to act quickly to bring the commonwealth in line with federal policies. It’s time for Pennsylvania to allow for the utilization of all FDA approved opioid reversal agents.

Mary Kaye Soriano, Zelienople