Nearly 8,000 doses of naloxone, a drug used to reverse opioid overdoses, have been delivered to distribution sites across Kentucky.

This delivery is the first of four expected this year as part of a settlement with Teva Pharmaceuticals Inc.

In October 2023, Teva agreed to pay Kentucky more than $71 million over 13 years, resolving allegations the company’s marketing and promotional practices fueled the drug crisis. In addition to the cash payments, Teva agreed to provide more than 23,000 units of naloxone for distribution in Kentucky annually.

Last week, nearly 8,000 doses arrived at five distribution centers in Louisville, Florence, Ashland, Paducah and Frankfort.

The Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission is responsible for the distribution of the Commonwealth’s share of the settlement funds. On Tuesday, the Commission will hold a public meeting to award the next round of grants.

The Opioid Commission is partnering with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) as well as the Kentucky Pharmacists Association for distribution.

Kentuckians can find out how to get free naloxone near them at FindNaloxoneNowKY.org. In Martin County, it is available at no charge at the Martin County Health Department, 136 Rockcastle Road in Inez. Call for hours and to confirm availability of naloxone: (606) 298-7752.